Australia played a decisive role in the latest repatriation of a group of ISIS-linked women and their children from Syria, according to Syrian officials. The group, consisting of four Australian women and nine children, departed the Al Roj camp in Syria last week and is scheduled to arrive in Sydney and Melbourne on Thursday.
Flights and Arrival Details
The women and children are due to land at Sydney Airport on flight QR908, with a larger contingent arriving later in the afternoon at Melbourne Airport on flight QR904. The repatriation marks a significant step in resolving the status of Australian nationals held in Syrian camps.
Syrian Government Statement
A Syrian government official told ABC News on Wednesday night that the Australian government held ultimate authority in the matter. 'The ball was entirely in the court of the Australians,' the official said, highlighting Australia's role as a deciding factor in the process.
The repatriation has been a complex issue, with the Australian government facing pressure to bring back citizens while balancing national security concerns. The women, often referred to as ISIS brides, had traveled to Syria to join the Islamic State group, and their return has sparked debate about rehabilitation and prosecution.
Further details on the repatriation process and the government's plans for the returnees are expected to emerge in the coming days.
