ISIS brides prepared to go to jail to get their children to Australia
Sydney Morning Herald
by Michael Bachelard, Andrew ProbynFebruary 26, 2026
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Mothers linked to Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria have revealed their willingness to face prison in Australia if it means reuniting with their children, according to a family representative. Despite security concerns initially raised by the Australian government, the Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) has cleared the cohort of 34 women and children as low-risk. However, the government remains steadfast in its refusal to repatriate them, citing national security priorities.
The opposition has shifted its stance slightly, with Home Affairs spokesman Jonno Duniam suggesting that if a proper risk assessment could be conducted, he would support their return under strict conditions. This contrasts with the government’s hardline position, which argues that Australia should not facilitate their return without full assurances of safety. ASIO director-general Mike Burgess previously stated that face-to-face interviews with the cohort contributed to downgrading the terror threat from "probable" to "possible."
The women and children have lived in the al-Roj camp for six years, where they are reportedly well-behaved and pose no immediate threat, according to camp officials. However, concerns persist about their ideological influence on the children, who may be vulnerable to radicalization. The government has also faced criticism over its policy of stripping citizenship from dual nationals overseas, which could leave individuals stateless and stranded in dangerous environments.
The situation highlights a complex interplay between national security, humanitarian concerns, and legal obligations. As global attention turns
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/26/2026