US Moves Over 5,700 ISIL Detainees from Syria to Iraq Raising Security Concerns
February 19, 2026
Is ISIL becoming a regional threat again? The US has moved thousands of detainees linked to ISIL from Syria to Iraq. After former President Donald Trump declared ISIL defeated, many fighters and their families were held in northeastern Syria. They stayed in prisons and camps there until recent changes on the ground. To prevent escapes, the US transferred over 5,700 suspected ISIL fighters to Iraq. This action has caused serious worry among human rights groups. They warn the detainees now face risks of torture and unfair trials. Why did the US decide on this transfer? Experts suggest it may be due to distrust in Syria’s new government. The issue raises big questions about the region's future security. Guests on the discussion included Zeidon Alkinani, an independent researcher on Middle East politics, Colin Clarke of The Soufan Center, and Sarah Sanbar from Human Rights Watch.
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Tags:
Isil
Isis
Detainees Transfer
Syria
Iraq
Human rights
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