Three Swedish children, Yasmin (10), Zein (8), and Zahra (7), are currently the only Swedes remaining in the Roj camp in Syria, reportedly because their father is believed to have been a member of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group. Their mother is not a Swedish citizen, which is why Swedish authorities have declined to bring them home like they did with other citizens previously held in similar camps. This situation has become increasingly alarming as the children's grandfather, Yosef, pleads for their return, emphasizing that the children are innocent victims of their parents' choices.

In his statements to Aftonbladet, Yosef described his deep concern for their well-being. He has only seen them through photos and videos, never having had the chance to meet or interact with them in person. The conditions in the camp are dire; he notes that the children are malnourished and living in tents without proper hygiene, making their health precarious amidst ongoing risks of starvation and disease. Organizations like Save the Children have corroborated these issues, reporting on the harmful living conditions that continue to pose serious threats to the children’s safety.

The refusal of the Swedish government to repatriate the children raises significant questions about policy regarding citizens linked to terrorist groups and their families. This case highlights the challenges governments face when addressing the humanitarian issues involving children of alleged extremists. With mounting pleas for the children’s return, there’s a possibility that public pressure could influence policy changes regarding the treatment of similarly situated families in the future.