Iraq Begins Trials for 1,300 IS Detainees

The Iraqi judiciary has officially launched investigations into 1,387 Islamic State (IS) suspects recently transferred from Syria.

The move follows a U.S.-coordinated operation to relocate detainees after Syrian government forces reclaimed territory previously held by Kurdish fighters.

The suspects, who include Iraqis, Syrians, and several European nationals, are part of a larger group of 7,000 individuals formerly held in Kurdish-run prisons.

Special counterterrorism judges are overseeing the proceedings, which the Supreme Judicial Council asserts will adhere to both national laws and international legal standards.

IS (News Central TV) — Iraq begins trials for 1,300 IS detainees. Credit: The National News

The transfer comes as the U.S. winds down its alliance with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) following the Syrian government’s offensive.

Iraq, which declared victory over IS in 2017, already manages a heavily congested prison system; its courts have historically handed down hundreds of life and death sentences to both local and foreign terrorists.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.