Latest news with #non-Syrian
The Guardian
25-02-2025
- Politics
- The Guardian
Forgotten by the west, Syria's IS prisons are under threat as militant group mobilises
With each gust of wind came a wave of body odour, the stench of two-dozen men wafting through the small hatch of the prison cell's heavy iron door. Inside, gaunt prisoners clad in brown jumpsuits sat on thin gray mattresses. Six years have passed since the end of the so-called caliphate of the Islamic State, but to the 4,500 men held inside Panorama prison in north-east Syria, little has changed since their initial capture. 'There's a war going on, right?' Muhammad Saqib Raza, a 45-year-old British-Pakistani doctor accused of being an IS fighter, asked Guardian reporters during a visit to the desert facility in early February. He confessed he knew 'nothing' of what was going on in the outside world, though he had learned from a visiting human rights worker that Donald Trump was now the US president. Detainees had no idea that Bashar al-Assad no longer ruled Syria – a fact the prison administration asked reporters not to share, for fear it would stir trouble within the prison. Guns, mobile phones and information were considered contraband within the four buildings that housed mostly non-Syrian men accused of fighting for IS. Guards carried clubs and wore balaclavas to conceal their identities from the prisoners, fearful that their families could face retribution in the case of a prison break. Outside the heavily fortified prison walls, the world has seemingly tried to forget that thousands of suspected IS fighters are still languishing in detention. But experts warn IS has not forgotten about them. The presence of US troops in Syria, which joined Kurdish-led forces to defeat IS in 2014, is in question. Governments such as the UK, Australia and France have mostly chosen to ignore the problem, stripping the alleged fighters of citizenship and declining to repatriate their nationals. After the fall of the Assad regime on 8 December, however, the world may no longer be able to ignore the remnants of IS. Kurdish officials have sounded the alarm, warning that the IS threat is greater than ever as the extremist group exploits the security vacuum left from the Syrian regime's collapse. IS activity has surged in northern Syria and sleeper cells, which for years lay low in the Syrian desert, have once again mobilised. 'When Assad fell, IS took lots of new territory and regime weaponry. IS is slowly rebuilding itself and one of its key goals will be the prison,' the director of Panorama prison said, asking for his name not to be shared for fear of being targeted by members of the radical group. Kurdish authorities hold up to 65,000 – 42,000 of which are foreign – suspected IS fighters and their relatives in prisons and camps across the autonomous region they rule in north-east Syria. Rights groups have consistently called on countries to bring their foreign nationals being held in north-east Syria back home. Human Rights Watch has said that the detention of foreign nationals is 'unlawful' and that Kurdish-led authorities are holding them in 'life-threatening conditions'. Kurdish officials fear the group will take advantage of Syria's current security vacuum to attack the detention facilities and try to spring their alleged peers free. The prison director's office overlooks the old prison facility, the site of a 2022 attack on the prison when IS sleeper cells attacked from the outside while prisoners took guards hostage on the inside. During the 10-day-long attack hundreds of IS prisoners escaped and almost 500 people were killed. The broken facade of the old facility now looms over the newly built Panorama prison, the jagged holes carved out from missiles a reminder not to grow complacent. 'Their faith in IS has gotten stronger in prison. The organisation is alive in prison. For now, it's dormant, but if we open the doors, it will come back to life,' the prison director said. Prisoners inside Panorama denied any connection to IS ideology. Many claimed never to have been part of the group at all. Raza, a maxillofacial surgeon who worked with the NHS in Leicester, claimed to have been exploring real estate prospects in Turkey when he was offered work at a hospital in Syria in an opportunity he described as 'good for the resume'. Once in Syria, he said he was kidnapped, thrown into a van and sold to IS, where he worked as a doctor. He further claimed that whatever IS sympathies his fellow prisoners once had, were gone. 'I've never found anything unusual with these guys. What I see here [in prison], I don't see anybody who could be a threat,' he said from behind bars in his cell as his fellow inmates looked on. The British government declined to repatriate Raza, as it did in many cases where its citizens had a second nationality. The UK has provided at least £15.8m in funding to expand the Panorama facility, which houses an unknown number of UK nationals who have either been stripped of citizenship or the Home Office has declined to repatriate. Some prisoners were open about their former involvement with IS. Mustafa Hajj-Obeid, a 41-year-old Australian national who was discovered in Panorama prison alive by the Guardian after publicly thought to have been missing since 2019, broke down in tears when he spoke about being a member of the group. 'I tried to get out a few times, a number of times … My wife in the camp, I love her very much and I ask her to forgive me for what I put her through and what I put my family through,' Hajj-Obeid said. None of the prisoners in north-east Syria's detention centres have been formally charged with any crimes, nor have they undergone any sort of trial. The Kurdish authority, unrecognised by Damascus or other states, has been unable to try the thousands of suspected fighters it holds. Unless they are repatriated by their home countries, foreign men suspected of fighting with IS appear to be detained in perpetuity, with essentially no communication with the outside world. Prisoners who spoke to the Guardian alleged mistreatment at the hands of Kurdish authorities, saying water was cut off deliberately as a punitive measure, speaking briefly in hushed tones in the presence of prison guards. There have been at least two tuberculosis outbreaks in the prison that have left detainees emaciated. In 2024, Amnesty International documented physical torture at the hands of prison guards. The prison director said guards did not hit detainees, but acknowledged that conditions in the prisons were difficult, attributing this to a lack of capacity. Human Rights Watch said foreign governments may be complicit in their nationals' unlawful detention, which if part of a systematic policy could amount to a 'crime against humanity'. 'When people kill people in Britain, they are put on trial, it goes under the system of justice. But here, why not? Why don't you bring us to trial?' Raza said before a prison guard slammed the door shut, declaring the visit over. Baderkhan Ahmad contributed to this report from north-east Syria
Asharq Al-Awsat
19-02-2025
- Politics
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Kurdish Leaderships Reveal Details of Plan to Merge with Syrian Army
Sources close to the Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) said the group's decision to merge its military and security bodies with those of the Kurdish Autonomous Administration is a serious step toward talks with Damascus. The move, announced late Monday, aims to integrate the SDF into the Syrian army. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi invited Syrian interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa to visit SDF-held areas in northeastern Syria, congratulating him on leading the country's transition. The SDF had published the minutes of a three-way meeting that included Abdi along with leaders from the group's political wing, the Syrian Democratic Council, and the executive administration of the Autonomous Administration. The meeting resulted in an agreement to merge the SDF's military and security institutions with the security bodies of the Autonomous Administration under the Syrian army's structure. It also approved the reactivation of state-run civil and service institutions in northeastern Syria and the withdrawal of non-Syrian foreign fighters from SDF ranks and areas under its control as part of efforts to bolster national sovereignty and stability. Abu Omar Al-Idlibi, a senior commander in the SDF, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the meeting concluded with an understanding that the SDF would be integrated into Syria's Ministry of Defense as a single unit, potentially within a corps or as part of the ministry's eastern command. However, he noted that discussions were still in their early stages and that oil and gas fields in northeastern Syria were not on the agenda at this stage, but could be addressed in future talks. Al-Idlibi described the move as an effort to unify forces and strengthen national unity, while reviving state-run civil and service institutions in the northeast to improve public services and living conditions. The meeting emphasized the need to boost coordination with Damascus, increase dialogue on national issues, and reaffirm Syria's territorial integrity. Al-Idlibi said the latest decisions would support the integration of local forces into the Syrian army, bolster its defense capabilities, and facilitate the return of displaced people to their hometowns, particularly those from areas affected by Turkish military operations.
Shafaq News
18-02-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Syria's SDF reach key agreements for "stability"
Shafaq News/ The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced that key agreements had been reached among stakeholders in northern and eastern Syria to enhance cooperation and stability in the country. According to a post on X by the commander of the SDF's Northern Brigade, Abu Omar Al-Idlibi, the agreements resulted from a meeting involving the SDF, the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), and the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria. The eight main points agreed upon include: -Integration of Military and Security Institutions: It was agreed to integrate the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the security institutions affiliated with the Autonomous Administration into the structure of the Syrian army, with the aim of unifying efforts and strengthening national power. - Reactivation of Civil Institutions: The participants agreed to reactivate state-affiliated civil and service institutions in northern and eastern Syria to ensure the provision of basic services and improve the living standards of the population. - Withdrawal of Foreign Fighters: It was affirmed that all non-Syrian fighters must withdraw from the ranks of the Syrian Democratic Forces and the northern and eastern Syria region as a step to enhance national sovereignty and stability. - Enhancing Coordination with the Syrian Government: It was agreed to intensify meetings and coordination with the Syrian government in Damascus to enhance cooperation on national issues. - Affirming Syria's Unity: The importance of Syria's territorial integrity was emphasized, with the view that incorporating local forces into the Syrian army would strengthen its ability to protect the homeland. - Return of Displaced Persons: It was agreed to facilitate the return of displaced persons and refugees to their cities and villages while ensuring the provision of suitable living conditions. -C ongratulating and Inviting President Ahmed Al-Sharaa: President Ahmed Al-Sharaa was congratulated on assuming office and an official invitation was extended to him to visit northern and eastern Syria to strengthen relations. -I mplementation Mechanisms for the Agreed-Upon Provisions: Joint committees comprising all parties were formed to develop plans and implementation mechanisms to ensure the effective application of the provisions. Al-Idlibi stated that these agreements are 'part of ongoing efforts to promote national unity and foster greater stability and peace in Syria.' The Syrian government has yet to officially confirm these agreements or their implementation mechanisms. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi on Monday emphasized the ongoing joint efforts to find solutions that serve Syria's national interest. ملخص اجتماع مجلس سوريا الديمقراطية (مسد) مع قوات سوريا الديمقراطية (قسد) والإدارة الذاتية لشمال وشرق سورياعُقد اجتماع يوم أمس بين الأطراف المعنية، حيث تم التوصل إلى مجموعة من الاتفاقات الهامة لتعزيز التعاون والاستقرار في سوريا. فيما يلي أبرز النقاط المتفق عليها:1. **دمج… — ابو عمر الإدلبي (@abo_omar_idleb) February 18, 2025
Shafaq News
18-02-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
SDF's Abdi congratulates Al-Sharaa, invites him to visit northeastern Syria
Shafaq News/ General Mazloum Abdi, the commander-in-chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), emphasized on Monday the ongoing joint efforts to find solutions that serve Syria's national interest. In an interview with 'North Press', Abdi also congratulated Syria's Transitional President, Ahmad Al-Shara, on assuming office nearly three weeks ago. Abdi said that the SDF supports any initiatives aimed at achieving stability and national unity. Highlighting those efforts to lay the groundwork for negotiations with the Syrian government in Damascus are continuing, Abdi stressed that serious and purposeful dialogue is the most effective way to reach solutions that prioritize Syria's highest national interests. Commenting on al-Shara's visit to Afrin, Abdi called it an "important initiative to encourage the safe return of the original residents and promote dialogue." He also invited the transitional president to visit northeastern Syria. Abdi stated that while there are points of agreement with Damascus, other issues are still under discussion. He reaffirmed his forces' commitment to Syria's unity, based on justice and equality for all Syrians, free from discrimination or political quotas. Earlier, Al-Sharaa had revealed some differences with the SDF regarding specific details. In response, Abdi revealed that Damascus had requested the removal of non-Syrian fighters from their ranks, the handover of security responsibilities, including ISIS detainees, to the Syrian government, and the return of central government institutions to northern and eastern Syria. Abdi noted that the SDF is open to cooperation, emphasizing that the protection of the region and the fight against terrorism is a national responsibility that requires high-level coordination between all parties to ensure Syria's security and stability. He also expressed openness to a national solution agreed upon by all Syrians, and confirmed that the SDF is planning another visit to Damascus to discuss a clear action plan for implementing the agreed-upon solutions.
Asharq Al-Awsat
14-02-2025
- Politics
- Asharq Al-Awsat
SDF Factions: Uncertain Scenarios in Complex Relations with Damascus
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) pose the main challenge to Syria's new administration, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, as it seeks to move past the conflict and rebuild the state. While efforts focus on forming a unified army under state control, most factions have agreed to join the Defense Ministry. However, the SDF insists on keeping its independent military structure and refuses to disband or integrate its fighters individually. Instead, it wants to remain a single unit within the new army. This stance contradicts the administration's position, which rejects any military force outside the new national army. Syrian Administration's Stance on the SDF The new Syrian administration has repeatedly emphasized that negotiations remain its primary approach to resolving its dispute with the SDF, with several rounds of talks held in recent months. Syrian government sources told Asharq Al-Awsat that 'negotiations are still the main option, and preparations are underway for new rounds in an effort to reach a comprehensive solution that eliminates any risk of future conflict.' They added that the government's policy is based on 'unifying the country and preventing any military factions from operating outside the Defense Ministry's authority.' The sources also stressed that 'the Kurdish issue is an internal Syrian matter and should not rely on external actors for a resolution. Competing Agendas Khaled al-Shuayti, one of the few Arab military commanders within the SDF in Deir Ezzor, said Arab tribes involved in the SDF through alliances and fighters 'will not engage in a confrontation with the new Syrian state.' Given the geography in which the SDF operates, it has forged alliances with local Arab communities and tribes in surrounding areas. Arab fighters number around 2,000 or slightly more, but they have little influence over the SDF's internal and external policies. 'If the Kurdish leadership insists on pursuing non-Syrian agendas, Arab fighters will break away from the SDF,' al-Shuayti told Asharq Al-Awsat. A faction within the SDF, led by Mazloum Abdi, supports talks with Damascus but faces opposition from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) leadership, which refuses to disarm before securing key demands. These include keeping the SDF as a single unit within Syria's Defense Ministry and granting Kurds some form of autonomy. Abdi, born Ferhad Abdi Sahin in Ain al-Arab (Kobani) in 1967, fought alongside the PKK and is a close associate of its jailed leader, Abdullah Ocalan. He helped establish the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), which later became the military wing of the Democratic Union Party (PYD). Abdi's push for negotiations with Damascus coincides with expectations that Ocalan may soon call for disarmament and an end to military action. Al-Shuayti believes Abdi is stalling to ease pressure while securing political gains for Syria's Kurds, including a role in governance and constitutional guarantees. Researcher Firas Faham from the Abaad Center for Strategic Studies told Asharq Al-Awsat that the new Syrian administration prefers diplomacy with the SDF, using Türkiye's military threats as leverage to push the group into talks with Damascus. However, the SDF is unlikely to make major decisions until US President Donald Trump clarifies his stance on withdrawing American troops from Syria. 'The SDF wants to retain its military structure within the Syrian army and maintain special administrative control over its territories,' Faham said. 'Damascus, on the other hand, may be open to granting Kurdish local councils some autonomy and recognizing certain cultural rights. But when it comes to military control, the Syrian government remains firm on maintaining a unified command,' he added. Possible Scenarios According to Faham, the future of relations between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces hinges largely on whether Trump decides to keep or withdraw American troops from Syria. The first scenario is a negotiated agreement in which the SDF drops what Damascus considers unrealistic demands, including maintaining its forces as a unified bloc within the Syrian army and abandoning its push for federal autonomy in areas under its control. The second scenario is military confrontation if the SDF refuses to reach an agreement with Damascus. In this case, Türkiye could intervene alongside the new Syrian army, leading to a likely military defeat for the SDF without securing any gains. The third scenario is maintaining the status quo, with the SDF retaining control over its forces and continuing to govern areas east of the Euphrates separately from the new Syrian administration. Currently, the SDF operates like a state within a state, with its own military and security forces and territory beyond Damascus' control. Internal divisions within the SDF further complicate the situation. One faction, led by Abdi, aligns with the West, while another, the Qandil faction—considered the most powerful—maintains close ties with Iran. This faction is dominated by PKK leaders from both Syria and Türkiye. Faham noted that Iran is strengthening its alliance with the Qandil faction within the SDF, viewing it as a tool to maintain influence in Syria after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Kurds within Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Kurdish activist Kurdi Ayubi, an Islamist who opposes the nationalist ideology represented by the SDF and who previously fought with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), estimates that only a few hundred Kurds share his views. He argues that the real power in SDF-controlled areas remains in the hands of the PKK. Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Ayubi explained that 'cadres' — fighters who initially served with the PKK and later joined the SDF after the Syrian revolution began — became involved in fighting with the start of the battle of Kobani against ISIS. These cadres come from various nationalities, including Turkish, Syrian, and Iranian Kurds. 'The Syrian cadres work almost openly, as seen with figures like Abdi, Farhad Shami, and Bulat Jan, alongside prominent women leaders such as Ilham Ahmed, who was a key fighter in the PKK,' added Ayubi. Ayubi said any agreement with the Syrian government would need approval from Qandil, with the final solution depending on the relationship between Turkish President Recep Tayyib Erdogan and imprisoned PKK leader Ocalan. He suggested the best approach for Damascus is to follow two paths: one, direct talks with the Qandil faction, and two, engaging with Kurdish tribal leaders in Kobani, Qamishli, and nearby areas. Ayubi said: 'Qandil wants a normal relationship with Damascus, as long as it remains discreet.' He added that reaching an agreement with Qandil would allow Damascus to enter the region peacefully.
