Iraqi officials are raising alarms about a potential security crisis as instability grows in Syria’s al-Hol Camp, located in Hasakah province in northeastern Syria. The camp, which houses approximately 40,000 individuals from 42 nationalities—mainly relatives of ISIS militants—has become a focal point of concern for Iraqi authorities.

Clashes between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Turkey-backed Syrian rebel factions threaten the camp’s fragile stability, raising fears that ISIS fighters may escape and infiltrate Iraq. Officials warn that such a development could severely undermine Iraq’s national security.

For months, Iraqi authorities have highlighted the risks posed by volatile conditions at al-Hol, citing ongoing attempts by ISIS cells to reorganize and obtain weapons from Syrian regime stockpiles. The potential for prison breaks and terrorist infiltration remains a critical concern.

Karim Ali Wali, chairman of the Security and Defense Committee in the Iraqi parliament, emphasized the regional implications of the unrest. “The developments in Syria, including the activities of groups like ISIS and al-Nusra Front, directly impact Iraq and the region. Many of these groups receive backing from regional and international actors,” he said.

Ali stressed that the instability at al-Hol and other detention centers under SDF control is exacerbated by Turkish military operations. He warned that the escape of ISIS-affiliated individuals, including thousands of Iraqis and Syrians housed at al-Hol, would pose a significant security threat to Iraq.

Iraqi security forces are now on high alert, closely monitoring the border for potential breaches. Lawmakers are urging regional collaboration to address the escalating threat and prevent the resurgence of ISIS in Iraq.