BAGHDAD (Anadolu) – Iraq’s top security official says 20 “dangerous terrorists” had escaped last month from a prison in Syria’s northeastern city of al-Hasakah, controlled by U.S-backed Kurdish militants.
National Security Adviser Qassem al-Araji made the remarks during his meeting with the European Union Ambassador to Iraq, Ville Varjola, according to a statement by his office, Anadolu news agency reported.
Al-Araji called on the EU to urge its members to withdraw their nationals from al-Hol camp, which houses the families of Daesh terrorists in eastern Syria.
“The presence of this large number of terrorists in the prisons of the (so-called) Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), with weak capabilities, constitutes a constant and permanent threat if the international community fails to fulfill its duties,” he said.
In January, an unknown number of Daesh members escaped from the Ghwayran detention camp in al-Hasakah, which is run by the U.S.-backed SDF forces, a rebranded version of the YPG/PKK terror group.
The UN’s counter-terrorism chief said Wednesday, an estimated 6,000-10,000 militants are operating under the Daesh terrorist group in Iraq and Syria.
Speaking at a UN Security Council briefing, Vladimir Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Office, called on member states to maintain gains against the threats by the terror group to prevent its expansion.
“During the reporting period, the group maintained its ability to launch attacks at a steady rate, including hit-and-run operations, ambushes and roadside bombs in both countries. It also continued to attack government forces and civilians with the apparent aim of instigating panic and increasing pressure on the authorities,” added Voronkov.
He warned that the group is known for its ability to regroup and even intensify its activities following major defeats.
“Military counter-terrorism operations may be necessary, but comprehensive measures with a strong focus on prevention are required to address the dynamics that fuel the appeal of terrorism,” he noted.