In light of the ongoing security challenges inside al-Hol Camp, the Internal Security Forces and the Women’s Internal Security Forces of North and East Syria, the Women’s Defense Units (YPJ), with the support of the Syrian Democratic Forces and the International Coalition, announce the launch of a new phase of the “Humanity and Security” operation. This campaign aims to protect the residents of al-Hol Camp and to ensure the safe continuation of humanitarian organizations’ activities inside the camp.
In recent months, the camp has witnessed an increase in ISIS sleeper cell activities, with more than thirty attacks carried out against humanitarian workers. These attacks have led to the destruction of facilities and service infrastructures, placing the lives of thousands of civilians at risk and obstructing humanitarian and stabilization efforts.
Accordingly, this campaign seeks to dismantle terrorist networks, pursue elements attempting to reimpose their influence, and prevent the exploitation of children under what is known as “Cubs of the Caliphate.” It also aims to safeguard humanitarian organizations and their staff through the reinforcement of awareness programs and psychosocial support.
Our data indicates that ISIS continues to exploit the most vulnerable groups within the camp, attempting to spread its extremist ideology among teenagers and children with the assistance of affiliated women. This effort seeks to raise a new generation indoctrinated with the group’s ideology under the name “Cubs of the Caliphate.” Such attempts include instilling extremist thought, enforcing radical practices within the camp, and inciting minors to adopt violence and target humanitarian organizations. This poses a direct threat to the future of these children and undermines stabilization and relief efforts.
The campaign also aims to reinforce security and service stability by protecting humanitarian facilities from any sabotage attempts, while enhancing coordination and joint cooperation between security forces, humanitarian actors, and the local community to deter terrorism and dry up its sources.
The “Humanity and Security” operation represents a new stage in a series of security and humanitarian campaigns previously launched by our forces in al-Hol Camp over the past years. These efforts have contributed to reducing ISIS cell activities and providing a safer environment. This stage reaffirms our continued commitment to combating terrorism and protecting civilians, while developing our methods in line with emerging challenges.
We, the Internal Security Forces of North and East Syria and the Women’s Protection Units, affirm that safety of our people is a red line. Protecting the camp from terrorism is a fundamental condition for ensuring the continuation of humanitarian assistance and achieving a stable and safe environment for all its residents.
The General Command of the Internal Security Forces of North and East Syria
05.09.2025
