Reuters reported on Jan. 20 that the U.S.-led coalition is negotiating a transfer of the Al-Hol camp to Syrian authorities, according to three Syrian sources. A Syrian official said the talks seek a smooth handover from Kurdish security forces to avoid security risks and prevent detainees from fleeing. Al-Hol houses civilians, including individuals linked to Islamic State, and a change of control could present operational and humanitarian challenges.
U.S.-Led Coalition In Talks To Transfer Al-Hol Camp To Syrian Authorities, Sources Say
FILE PHOTO: A general view of al-Hol displacement camp in Hasaka governorate, Syria April 2, 2019. REUTERS/Ali Hashisho/File Photo
On Jan. 20, Reuters reported that the U.S.-led coalition fighting the Islamic State is negotiating a transfer of control of the Al-Hol camp to Syrian authorities, three Syrian sources familiar with the discussions said.
A Syrian official among those sources said the talks are focused on ensuring a smooth handover from Kurdish security forces that have been guarding the camp, with the aim of avoiding security risks or the escape of detainees during the transition.
Background
Al-Hol, located in northeastern Syria, shelters civilians, including people with links to Islamic State. The camp has been under the oversight of Kurdish security forces since the territorial defeat of IS in the region, and any change of control could present operational and humanitarian challenges.
Reporting: Suleiman Al-Khalidi, Mahmoud Hasano and Khalil Ashawi; Editing by Sharon Singleton.
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