France repatriates women and children from Syrian prisons amid security concerns

On September 16, 2025, France executed a repatriation operation, bringing back three women and ten children from Kurdish-run prisons in Syria. This operation marks the first of its kind in two years, emphasizing the sensitivity surrounding the repatriation of individuals linked to jihadist groups, especially given France's experiences with Islamist terrorism in recent years. The recent action reflects a complex domestic and international situation regarding the handling of French nationals accused of connection to groups like the Islamic State. The women, aged between 18 and 34, have been placed in police custody while the authorities assess their backgrounds. The quest for repatriation has been contentious in France, which has faced significant security threats, particularly after the 2015 Paris attacks that resulted in the deaths of 130 individuals. The government's stance has evolved over the years, with mixed opinions on the safety of returning these individuals. Although France halted repatriations for two years, international organizations have consistently advised the country to take back those detained in Syrian camps, citing human rights concerns. The operation occurred with the assistance of local Syrian authorities and the French foreign ministry, portraying a cooperative effort in addressing the concerns surrounding these returnees. Despite France's limited repatriation efforts, over 179 children and 60 women had returned since 2019. However, numerous individuals remain in custody, including 110 French children in the Roj camp. Advocates for the accused argue that current repatriation policies unfairly penalize children for their parents' actions, calling them arbitrary. This sentiment has been echoed by family representatives and legal advocates who argue that the government should not ignore the plight of those without direct involvement in militant activities. As the Kurdish authorities voice intentions to empty camps by the year's end, France's decision to repatriate the recent group may reflect a cautious pivot in their approach to dealing with returning nationals while upholding national security and humanitarian considerations. The ongoing situation highlights the broader implications of managing jihadist relatives and the responsibility that nations hold in addressing the aftermath of extremism, balancing safety with ethical obligations regarding refugees and displaced persons.