US begins transferring ISIS detainees from Syria to Iraq amid security transition

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by Ashley CarnahanJanuary 21, 2026 at 08:20 PM

AI Summary

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The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has begun transferring ISIS detainees from northeastern Syria to secure facilities in Iraq. The transfers, which began Wednesday with 150 fighters, aim to prevent the resurgence of ISIS and maintain regional security. Ultimately, up to 7,000 detainees could be moved. This action follows a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the new Syrian government, which includes the handover of ISIS prisons and camps to Damascus. The U.S. maintains that facilitating the orderly transfer of detainees is critical to preventing breakouts that would threaten the U.S. and the region. The U.S. aims to transition security responsibilities to local entities and avoid a long-term military presence in Syria.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Turkey 30% Ahmed al-Sharaa 30% al-Hol camp 40% Brad Cooper 50% Hasakah 50% Tom Barrack ×250% Syrian Democratic Forces ×360% Syria ×570% Iraq ×270% U.S. Central Command ×270% United States ×280% Islamic State of Iraq and Syria ×790%

Keywords

isis detainees 100% syria 90% iraq 80% security transition 70% u.s. central command 60% regional security 60% syrian democratic forces 50% isis resurgence 50% detention facilities 50% al-hol camp 40%