Iraqi FM warns of escalating ISIS threat, al-Hol camp crisis
“The terrorist organization is regrouping its ranks and has obtained significant weaponry due to the fall of the Syrian army and the abandonment of its arms depots. This has allowed ISIS to increase its control over further territories,” he said.
Dec. 20, 2024
Erbil (Kurdistan 24) – Iraq’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein has warned over the possible escape of ISIS terrorists from detention facilities and the escalating instability in al-Hol camp, cautioning about the calamitous implications for regional security.
In a statement that was issued by the Iraqi Foreign Ministry, it was said that Fuad Hussein discussed these concerns during a phone call with Hamish Falconer, the British Minister for the Middle East and North Africa.
Falconer expressed his satisfaction with the results of the Aqaba meetings, in which the United Kingdom attended. He stressed the importance of upholding these discussions to observer developments in Syria and address ongoing challenges.
He also raised concern about the possibility for armed clashes between various militant groups and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), noticing, “The situation in Syria cannot bear further internal conflict.”
Speaking about these issues, Fuad Hussein emphasized the possible threat for a resurgence of ISIS.
“The terrorist organization is regrouping its ranks and has obtained significant weaponry due to the fall of the Syrian army and the abandonment of its arms depots. This has allowed ISIS to increase its control over further territories,” he said.
The minister also cautioned of the dangers posed by worsening conditions at al-Hol camp and the risk of ISIS elements escaping from prisons.
He underscored that such developments would have severe consequences on security in both Syria and Iraq.
Hussein underlined the importance of a comprehensive political process in Syria, supporting the participation of representatives from all communities.
He also urged for continued international aid to ease the suffering of the Syrian people and stabilize the region.