Syria plans to permanently close two refugee camps in the northeast, which are receiving thousands of civilians linked to the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) organization. A Syrian government official said the plan aims to end the operations of al-Hol and Roj camps, which have been considered sensitive security concentration points for many years.
According to UN figures, al-Hol and Roj camps currently hold more than 28,000 people, mainly Syrian and Iraqi citizens. Among these, about 6,000 foreigners live in al-Hol camp and about 2,000 foreigners in Roj camp. Most of these people are relatives of IS gunmen or those believed to be linked to this organization.
A charity operating in both camps, the Global Community Solidarity and Resilience Foundation based in Switzerland, said they understand that the Damascus government aims to completely clear and close the camps within one year. This information reflects the Syrian government's determination to definitively address the issue of refugee camps that have existed since the period of IS's weakening.
Recently, Syrian forces took over al-Hol camp after the Syrian Democratic Forces led by the Kurds withdrew in chaos. Meanwhile, Roj camp is still under the control of the Syrian Democratic Forces. In recent days, residents of Roj said they were asked to stay in tents as relief organizations withdrew due to increased security concerns.
These refugee camps are for families and civilians accused of being linked to IS, separated from detention facilities specializing in managing suspects who are gunmen.
