In the media: Thomas Renard on the recent clashes between Kurdish forces and the Syrian army, and the potential implications of the jihadist detained by the Kurds in the region.

On Wednesday, January 21st, Thomas Renard, Director of the ICCT, was interviewed by multiple newspapers regarding the potential revival of ISIS on the ground in Syria and the return of European jihadists to carry out attacks in Europe, while highlighting the security and policy risks posed by the current detention system for IS suspects amid the ongoing instability in Syria.

Renard said in an interview with De Morgen, “The greatest risk is that ISIS could more than double in numbers and relaunch itself, but there is also a risk that European fighters return and strike here.” He also warned, “The role of Oussama Atar in the attacks in Belgium and beyond shows that you only need one person who is motivated enough, charismatic, and connected. The escapes in Syria are, unfortunately, the chronicle of a disaster foretold. The warning lights have been on for at least seven years. It is actually a miracle that it has lasted this long.”

Speaking to AFP, Renard said, "Any mass escape — with detainees either exploiting security gaps or being deliberately allowed to leave — would be a worst-case scenario," adding that "this solution — of provisional detention facilities, without trial, without prospects — was never going to be sustainable in a highly volatile region." He further emphasised that the escape of detainees could lead some to rejoin IS or other jihadist groups, a development that "would be bad for Syria, for the region, and for global security."

Read the two articles here: 

• Door Koerden geleide SDF verliest controle over Al-Hol en Syrische gevangenissen: OCAD monitort veiligheidsrisico voor België (in Dutch)
• Fate of IS detainees uncertain as Damascus reins in Kurds