Islamic State (ISIS)

The Islamic State (ISIS) remains a significant concern in Syria and Iraq, particularly regarding the fate of detained fighters and their families. Recent news highlights the ongoing struggle for control in northeastern Syria between Syrian government forces and Kurdish-led forces (SDF). As the Syrian government advances, the US is transferring ISIS detainees from Syrian prisons to Iraq, potentially moving thousands. The Syrian military accuses the SDF of allowing ISIS-linked detainees to escape from the al-Hol camp, further complicating the situation. The Syrian government has announced a ceasefire with the SDF, aiming to integrate them into Syrian institutions. However, the large number of ISIS fighters and family members held in detention camps like al-Hol presents a major security and humanitarian dilemma for Syria's leaders. The situation is further complicated by external actors, as evidenced by China urging the Taliban to improve security after an attack in Kabul.