US forces complete transfer of thousands of ISIS detainees from Syria to Iraq

The Hill

by Filip Timotija

February 13, 2026

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US forces complete transfer of thousands of ISIS detainees from Syria to Iraq

The U.S. military has completed the transfer of thousands of low-level ISIS prisoners from Syria to Iraq, marking the conclusion of an operation initiated at Baghdad's request earlier this year. The process began on January 21 and involved transferring male ISIS fighters held in northeastern Syria to Iraqi facilities. This move was part of a broader effort to address the presence of ISIS detainees in Syria, aligning with Iraqi government demands for their removal. The transfer reflects ongoing collaboration between U.S. forces and Iraqi authorities in counterterrorism efforts. While details about the exact number of prisoners moved remain limited, sources indicate that the operation targeted low-ranking ISIS members rather than senior leaders. This focus on lower-level fighters underscores the Iraqi government's strategy to dismantle the group's operational capabilities while addressing concerns over the presence of ISIS detainees in Syria. This development highlights the complex dynamics of U.S.-Iraq relations in the context of counterterrorism. By transferring the prisoners, the U.S. has demonstrated its commitment to supporting Iraq's efforts to combat ISIS, despite ongoing tensions and shifting priorities in the region. The move also raises questions about the future of these detainees—whether they will face trial in Iraq or be repatriated to other countries—and what this means for the broader fight against terrorism. For readers interested in politics, this transfer underscores the evolving nature of counterterrorism operations and the challenges of international cooperation in addressing transnational threats. It also sheds light on Iraq's efforts to consolidate security gains while navigating complex geopolitical landscapes. As U.S. forces wind down their presence in Syria, such operations will likely

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Originally published on The Hill on 2/13/2026