In a major development to address the ongoing crisis in Syrian displacement camps, the United States facilitated the repatriation of dozens of foreign nationals from northeast Syria on May 7th, including American, Canadian, Dutch and Finnish citizens.
“This is the largest single repatriation of U.S. citizens from northeast Syria to date,”
said U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
Extracting Families from Dire Conditions
The repatriation involved 11 U.S. citizens, among them five minors, as well as a 9-year-old non-citizen sibling resettled in the U.S. Additionally, six Canadian children were brought home by the Canadian government, partnering with American efforts. Four Dutch citizens and one Finnish national were also repatriated with U.S. assistance.
“We thank these governments for their partnership and applaud their demonstration of leadership by bringing their nationals home,”
Blinken stated, praising the allied nations.
Key Points:
- 11 U.S. citizens repatriated, including 5 minors
- 1 non-citizen minor (age 9) resettled in the U.S.
- 6 Canadian children repatriated
- 4 Dutch citizens repatriated
- 1 Finnish citizen repatriated
A Longstanding Humanitarian Crisis
Approximately 30,000 individuals from over 60 countries remain stranded in the al-Hol and Roj displaced persons camps in northeast Syria, the majority children. The camps have faced severe overcrowding, lack of resources, and security issues.
“The only durable solution is for countries to repatriate, rehabilitate, reintegrate, and where appropriate, ensure accountability,” Blinken urged. He vowed continued U.S. support for repatriating allies’ citizens unable to return home safely.
Next Steps: Resettlement and Reintegration
Moving forward, the repatriated citizens will undergo rehabilitation and reintegration processes in their home countries. Canada highlighted providing “support and care” for the returned children to “begin a new life.”
Both nations thanked the Syrian Democratic Forces and the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria for enabling the complex operation amid security challenges.
Sources: THX News, Global Affairs Canada & US Department of State.
