If the ISIS women and children come home, Australia will be safer
Sydney Morning Herald
by Jamal RifiFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
An Australian doctor working in Syria has spoken out about his efforts to repatriate children and their mothers trapped in ISIS detention camps, arguing that bringing them home would make Australia safer. The doctor, who has been involved in this work for over a decade, explains how he has provided medical support to these families since 2015, emphasizing the urgent need for their return due to the life-threatening conditions they face.
The situation has become increasingly political, with the doctor facing backlash from both sides of the aisle. While some governments have supported repatriation efforts in the past, recent proposals by opposition leaders, such as Angus Taylor’s suggestion to criminalize assistance to these families, have raised concerns among humanitarian groups and individuals like the doctor. He highlights how this would impact not only his work but also that of respected charities and the families themselves.
The doctor’s decades-long involvement with these children and their mothers has been driven by a deep commitment to their well-being. He recalls instances where he provided medical advice for issues ranging from panic attacks to physical illnesses, underscoring the dire conditions in the camps. His efforts have not always been met with success or understanding, but he remains steadfast in his belief that these families are Australian citizens deserving of support.
The doctor’s concerns extend beyond individual cases; he sees broader implications for global security and human rights. By criminalizing the repatriation process, Australia risks setting a dangerous precedent
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/25/2026