ISIS bride Shamima Begum 'should be allowed back into Britain', counter-terrorism review finds

ISIS Bride Shamima Begum Should Be Allowed Back, Says Counter-Terrorism Review

A counter-terrorism report warns that detention camps in north-eastern Syria risk turning into "Britain's Guantanamo" if British-linked detainees are not repatriated.

Key Findings from the Independent Commission on UK Counterterrorism

Shamima Begum, who left East London at age 15 to join Islamic State, should be permitted to return to the UK.
Leaving Begum and others in detention camps in Syria is "unsustainable" and poses a risk of these camps becoming akin to "Britain's Guantanamo."
Conditions at camps such as Al Hol and Al Roj amount to "inhuman and degrading treatment."
Detaining British-linked individuals in Syria violates the UK's international human rights obligations.

Recommendations for the UK Government

“The government should facilitate the voluntary repatriation for British nationals, including those deprived of British nationality. It should appoint a special envoy to oversee repatriation and inform returnees of the likelihood of prosecution.”

The report emphasizes the need for a structured return process to address humanitarian and legal concerns effectively.

Context on Shamima Begum

Begum's case highlights the complex issue of British citizens who joined ISIS and are now detained abroad. The report argues that indefinite limbo for such individuals is not a viable solution.

Author's summary: The review calls for the UK to repatriate British nationals from Syrian detention camps to uphold human rights and prevent the camps from becoming a permanent, unlawful detention site.

LBC — 2025-11-12

ISIS Bride Shamima Begum Should Be Allowed Back, Says Counter-Terrorism Review

Key Findings from the Independent Commission on UK Counterterrorism

Recommendations for the UK Government

Context on Shamima Begum

More News