A new conflict is on the horizon regarding Shamima Begum as there are indications that she might soon be released from a detention camp in Syria.
The 26-year-old former member of ISIS has made a fresh plea to return to the UK. However, the government is determined to oppose her reentry.
Born in London, Begum, who joined ISIS at the age of 15, had her British citizenship revoked in 2019. Her legal team argues that she was manipulated and exploited for sexual purposes as a minor. The European Court of Human Rights has sought clarification from the UK regarding the contentious decision to strip her citizenship.
Recently, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood reaffirmed the government’s unwavering stance. She emphasized that all legal avenues have been exhausted, and the UK authorities will vigorously defend their position at the European Court of Human Rights.
The question now arises about Begum’s future whereabouts. With the Syrian government reaching a ceasefire with the Syrian Democratic Forces, control of the region has shifted, potentially impacting the fate of individuals in detention. It is estimated that around 10 British men, 20 women, and 40 children are held in detention centers in northern Syria, with Begum reportedly in the al-Roj camp.
Former Tory attorney general Dominic Grieve has insisted that the UK bears responsibility for Begum. Even figures like ex-Tory Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg and Labour peer Alf Dubs have criticized the decision to revoke her citizenship.
Legal authorities in Strasbourg have raised concerns about whether the UK government adequately considered Begum as a victim of trafficking. Solicitor Gareth Peirce highlighted the failures in protecting a vulnerable teenager and the lack of assessment regarding grooming and trafficking issues.
Begum, now 26, traveled to Syria in 2015 with two school friends, Amira Abase and Kadiza Sultana, both of whom have reportedly passed away.
