The future of about 8,500 people held in the al-Hol and Roj camps in northeast Syria is unclear after the government announced the camps would close. For years, these camps held women and children linked to suspected Islamic State fighters. Many were never charged with crimes and lived in very poor and dangerous conditions. On January 20, control of al-Hol was transferred to Syrian authorities, and by late February, the camp was emptied in a chaotic and unplanned way. In the Roj camp, which is still controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces, women reported night raids, beatings, theft, and boys being taken from their mothers. Some families said guards threatened and mistreated them during searches. As people left the camps, many faced risks such as trafficking, exploitation, and recruitment by armed groups. Governments are being urged to quickly repatriate their citizens and ensure safe shelter, medical care, and fair legal treatment. Many families now live in fear and deep uncertainty about their future.

El Roi, we plead for Your divine visitation for the women and children facing forced deportations, trafficking, exploitation, and forced separation of boys from their mothers in the camps in northeast Syria. Cover them from all evil and evil-doers with Your Mighty Wings (The Holy Bible, Genesis 21:14-20).

Pray for the people in the al-Hol and Roj camps in northeast Syria to have access to all their basic needs and rights. Pray for the international authorities to take immediate action to repatriate these women and children to their homelands (The Holy Bible, 2 Samuel 22:3).

News Source: Human Rights Watch

Image Source: Canva