ISIS Prisons in Syria Seen as Security Threat to Iraq and the Region

ISIS Prisons in Syria Seen as Security Threat to Iraq and the Region
………………..

Prisons holding thousands of ISIS militants in northeastern Syria under the control of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are increasingly viewed as a major regional and international security concern. Experts warn that these facilities, which detain over 10,000 fighters including senior leaders, could become “ticking time bombs” if security collapses or mass escapes occur. Such a scenario, analysts say, could reignite the group’s activities, particularly along the Iraqi border.

Iraq has already taken steps to mitigate risks tied to displaced populations connected with the group. The Ministry of Migration and Displacement announced the repatriation of nearly 25,000 Iraqi citizens from Syria’s al-Hol and Roj camps, including 15,000 in the past two years.

These camps largely house the families of ISIS fighters and are seen as breeding grounds for radicalization. Iraqi lawmaker Mohammed Kareem cautioned that the prisons could serve as “potential rear bases” for future escapes and recruitment, especially amid weak international oversight.

Military analyst Imad Allo stressed that any breakdown in prison control would not remain confined to Syria but would impact wider regional stability due to cross-border smuggling and funding networks. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) praised Iraq’s role in addressing post-ISIS challenges, highlighting Baghdad’s efforts to repatriate citizens as key to strengthening national security and regional stability.