Syrian authorities have initiated the evacuation of the al-Hol camp, which primarily houses individuals associated with ISIS, according to reports from AFP. The camp, once held under the control of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has seen a shift in power dynamics with recent changes, as Syrian forces have now taken control. A spokesperson confirmed to AFP that the camp is expected to be entirely emptied within a week, ensuring that no individuals remain there as they are relocated to a new facility in Akhtarin, located in the northern Aleppo province.

The evacuation comes in response to assessments conducted by the authorities which highlighted significant deficiencies in the basic living conditions within the al-Hol camp. As a result, swift action was deemed necessary to ensure the well-being of those residing there. The United Nations estimates that the al-Hol and Roj camps together host more than 28,000 individuals, primarily consisting of Syrians and Iraqis, among which around 6,000 foreigners are held in al-Hol alone, with additional individuals in Roj, all connected to the Islamic State group. This situation underscores ongoing challenges concerning the management and humanitarian conditions within such camps, given their notorious reputations and the strained resources.

The evacuation raises questions about the future safety and integration of these individuals once relocated, particularly considering the complexities surrounding their affiliations with ISIS. The international community has been watching developments closely, as the handling of former ISIS members and their families poses dilemmas for several countries regarding repatriation and rehabilitation. There is a pressing need for coordinated approaches among nations to address the repercussions of ISIS's territorial losses and the associated socio-political challenges that emerge from detaining individuals linked to the group.