The General Command of the Internal Security Forces of North and East Syria announced that a new phase of the “Humanitarian and Security Operation” against ISIS cells has begun in al-Hol Camp.
The announcement was made from inside the camp, where the operation started in the morning. Rûksana Mihemed, spokesperson for the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), delivered the statement in Kurdish, while Meen El Asî, representing the Cizîre Canton Internal Security Forces Command, read it in Arabic.
Protection of humanitarian workers
The statement said that, given the security problems in al-Hol Camp, and with the support of the Internal Security Forces, the Women’s Internal Security Forces, the YPJ, the Syrian Democratic Forces and the International Coalition, a new phase of the Humanitarian and Security Operation has been launched to protect the residents of the camp and ensure the safe functioning of humanitarian organizations there.
Increase in ISIS attacks inside camp
It noted that attacks by ISIS cells in the camp have recently increased, with more than thirty assaults on humanitarian workers, sabotage of buildings and service facilities, endangering thousands of civilians, and obstructing aid and stabilization efforts.
Preventing exploitation of minors
The operation aims to dismantle terrorist networks, track elements trying to reassert their influence, protect humanitarian agencies and their staff, and prevent the exploitation of children known as the “Cubs of the Caliphate” by strengthening awareness programs and psychosocial support.
According to the statement, intelligence shows that ISIS is trying to exploit the camp’s most vulnerable groups. With the help of some women linked to the organization, ISIS spreads extremist ideology among youth and children to raise a new generation inspired by ISIS under the label “Cubs of the Caliphate.” These efforts involve indoctrinating children, imposing extremist practices, encouraging youth to embrace violence, and targeting humanitarian organizations, which threatens the future of those children and undermines peace and aid efforts.
Creating a safe environment is essential
The operation also seeks to protect humanitarian organizations from sabotage, strengthen the safety and stability of services, and improve coordination and cooperation between security forces, humanitarian groups, and local residents to prevent terrorism and its sources.
The statement emphasized that the Humanitarian and Security Operation represents a new phase in a series of actions carried out in al-Hol Camp in recent years, which have helped curb ISIS activity and create a safer environment. It underscores a continued commitment to fighting terrorism and protecting civilians while developing methods to overcome emerging challenges.
The Women’s Internal Security Forces of North and East Syria, the Internal Security Forces, and the YPJ affirmed that human security is a red line and that protecting the camp from terrorism is a prerequisite for ensuring the continuity of humanitarian aid and creating a safe and secure environment for all residents of the region.