Australian-origin families of ISIS fighters to be rescued from Syria

Australian-origin families of ISIS fighters to be rescued from Syria

The government did not immediately confirm reports that 16 women and 42 children of Islamic State fighters killed or jailed in camps for three-and-a-half years would be brought back.

Melbourne:

Canberra is ready to rescue dozens of Australian women and children of Islamic State fighters from refugee camps in Syria, following a covert mission from the country's security intelligence agency, media reported on Monday.

The government did not immediately confirm reports that 16 women and 42 children of Islamic State fighters killed or jailed in camps for three-and-a-half years would be brought back.

A spokeswoman for Home Affairs Minister Claire O'Neill said in emailed comments: "The Australian Government's key priority is the protection of Australians and the national interests of Australia, informed by national security advice."


O'Neill had no immediate reaction to the government's call by his opposition counterpart to reassure Australians that anyone who may be radicalized is in no danger of returning to Australia.


Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said on Monday that there are about 40 Australian children living in a camp in Syria, and that some of their mothers were seduced and married off to Islamic State warriors when they were exceptionally youthful.

"At the point when they return to Australia, I think it will be vital that youngsters specifically get guiding," Plibersek said on Station 7 TV.


Australia first rescued eight children and grandchildren of two dead Islamic State fighters from a Syrian refugee camp in 2019, but has not yet brought back any others.