Summary
A camp in Syria, known for housing people linked to the Islamic State, experienced numerous escapes after Syrian government forces took control. The camp, al-Hol, was officially closed, and many residents have been relocated or repatriated. The camp's closure and subsequent events have increased security concerns in the area.
Key Facts
- Al-Hol camp in northeast Syria housed people with suspected links to the Islamic State.
- There were at least 133 escapes after Syrian forces took control of the camp.
- Most escapes happened during clashes between Syrian forces and Kurdish fighters.
- The camp originally held about 23,500 people, with a majority being women, children, and elderly.
- Residents came from Syria, Iraq, and 44 other countries.
- Many residents have been moved to a new location in Aleppo province or repatriated to Iraq.
- The Syrian government is working with other countries to resolve the status of foreign residents.
