A major security operation concluded this week as U.S. forces finished moving thousands of ISIS detainees from Syria into Iraqi custody. The mission, which wrapped up following a final nighttime flight on Feb. 12, was designed to stabilize the region and ensure that fighters remain in secure facilities.
The logistical undertaking spanned 23 days, starting back on Jan. 21. During that window, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) oversaw the transport of more than 5,700 adult male ISIS fighters. These individuals were moved from various detention centers in northeastern Syria across the border to Iraq.
Planning and execution for the move were handled by U.S. and coalition forces under Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR). This group has worked to manage the remnants of the ISIS network since the group lost its final bits of territory in 2019. Military officials noted that the coordination required both ground and air assets to keep the transfer orderly.
READ: CENTCOM: U.S. Forces Hammer 30 ISIS Targets Across Syria
“Job well done to the entire Joint Force team who executed this exceptionally challenging mission on the ground and in the air with great focus, professionalism, and collaboration with our regional partners,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander. “We appreciate Iraq’s leadership and recognition that transferring the detainees is essential to regional security.”
The move is seen as a strategic step to reduce the pressure on Syrian detention camps, which have long been viewed as potential flashpoints for unrest. By moving the fighters to Iraq, officials hope to minimize the risk of any breakouts that could lead to a new wave of violence.
“I am extremely proud of the coalition’s exceptional work,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Kevin Lambert, CJTF-OIR commander. “The successful execution of this orderly and secure transfer operation will help prevent an ISIS resurgence in Syria.”
With the mission complete, the focus shifts back to the long-term mission of CJTF-OIR, which was established in 2014. The coalition continues to advise and assist local partner forces to ensure the militant group cannot regain a foothold in the Middle East.
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