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SDF pulls forces from IS-linked detention camp
The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Tuesday that its fighters had withdrawn from al-Hol camp, which holds thousands of people with alleged ties to the Islamic State (IS) group. The move comes as clashes with Syrian government forces persist despite a recent ceasefire agreement.
Reasons behind the withdrawal
In a statement, the SDF cited "international indifference" toward IS as the primary reason for its redeployment. The group accused the global community of failing to address the threat posed by the jihadist organization, forcing its forces to prioritize defending Kurdish-majority areas in northern Syria.
"Due to the international indifference toward the issue of the IS terrorist organisation and the failure of the international community to assume its responsibilities in addressing this serious matter, our forces were compelled to withdraw from al-Hol camp."
SDF statement
Government condemns move as security risks escalate
Syria's interior ministry criticized the SDF's withdrawal, calling it an uncoordinated attempt to pressure Damascus over counterterrorism efforts. The ministry confirmed it was working with the US-led coalition to maintain security at the camp and other detention facilities.
The SDF's pullout followed a series of violent incidents, including the escape of dozens of suspected IS fighters from Shaddadi prison in southern Hassakeh province. The interior ministry reported that 120 detainees fled during clashes, though 81 were later recaptured. The SDF, however, claimed that as many as 1,500 IS members escaped, accusing government-backed factions of orchestrating the breakout.
Ceasefire deal and shifting control
On Sunday, the SDF agreed to cede control of northeastern Syria-including prisons and camps-to the government as part of a ceasefire deal. Under the terms, SDF fighters are to withdraw from Raqqa and Deir al-Zour provinces to Hassakeh, with plans for their integration into Syrian military and interior ministry forces.
The agreement marks a significant setback for the SDF, which had secured autonomy for Syria's Kurdish minority after partnering with the US-led coalition to defeat IS during the country's 13-year civil war.
Humanitarian concerns and international response
Al-Hol camp, home to roughly 34,000 people-60% of them children-has long been a focal point for humanitarian and security challenges. The UN reported last August that the camp held 6,700 Iraqis, 15,500 Syrians, and 8,500 foreign nationals, including citizens of the UK and other Western countries.
The SDF, US, and UN have repeatedly urged countries to repatriate their citizens, citing dire conditions and instability in the camps. However, many governments have resisted, leaving detainees in legal limbo.
The US, once the SDF's primary ally, has not directly commented on the withdrawal from al-Hol. However, US special envoy Tom Barrack emphasized Washington's focus on securing IS detention facilities and facilitating dialogue between the SDF and President Ahmed al-Sharaa's government.
"This moment offers a pathway to full integration into a unified Syrian state with citizenship rights, cultural protections, and political participation-long denied under Bashar al-Assad's regime."
Tom Barrack, US Special Envoy
Ongoing tensions and appeals for de-escalation
SDF commander Mazloum Abdi called on the US-led coalition to "bear its responsibilities in protecting facilities" and warned that defending Kurdish areas was a "red line." He also urged the Syrian government to halt attacks and return to negotiations.
Meanwhile, President Sharaa's office reported a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Monday, during which both leaders stressed Syria's territorial unity and the protection of Kurdish rights within the Syrian state.
The SDF has also accused government forces of shelling al-Aqtan prison near Raqqa, cutting off its water supply. The defense ministry denied the allegations, stating the facility was "fully secured" and under military police protection.
