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Independent Counterterror Review Urges UK to Repatriate Shamima Begum and Other Detainees From Syrian Camps

The commission says the government's stance has become untenable given inhumane camp conditions that breach legal obligations.

Overview

  • The Independent Commission on UK Counter-Terrorism recommends facilitating voluntary returns for British nationals, including those stripped of citizenship, overseen by a special envoy.
  • An organised pathway is urged for screening, likely prosecution where warranted, rehabilitation and integration to manage public safety.
  • The report describes al-Hol and al-Roj as inhuman and degrading and warns the sites risk becoming “Britain’s Guantanamo.”
  • Commissioners estimate roughly 50–72 UK-linked people remain detained, mostly women, with about 30–40 children among them.
  • Ministers have not announced a policy change; a Home Office statement says Begum has no right to return and senior politicians have condemned the recommendation.