Internal Security Forces launch campaign against ISIS cells in al-Hol Camp

AL-HOL, North and East Syria — Internal Security Forces (ISF) in North and East Syria have launched a new security campaign targeting ISIS sleeper cells in the al-Hol camp, a site housing tens of thousands of families affiliated with the extremist Islamic group. 

The campaign, announced on Friday, comes amid growing concerns over the camp’s instability and the increasing threat posed by ISIS cells. In a public statement, the ISF highlighted recent developments in the region that have allowed ISIS cells to mobilize and carry out terrorist activities. The statement noted repeated attempts by ISIS to smuggle families out of the camp, as well as documented cases of threats and assaults against residents. 

Al-Hol camp, described as an exceptional case due to the presence of tens of thousands of ISIS-affiliated families, has been labeled a humanitarian and security crisis. The lack of comprehensive solutions from the international community and the cessation of international support have left the burden of managing the camp on the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES). This has exacerbated challenges, including instability and humanitarian and security concerns. 

The ISF, alongside the Women’s Internal Security Forces, Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), and with support from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), have initiated the campaign based on precise intelligence regarding organized ISIS cells operating inside and outside the camp. The operation aims to dismantle these cells and prevent them from destabilizing the camp and its surroundings. 

The al-Hol camp has long been a focal point for ISIS activity, with the group exploiting the camp’s residents to recruit and reorganize. The ongoing campaign underscores the region’s commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring security and stability for all communities in North and East Syria.