Situation of jihadists in northeastern Syria - Q&A - Excerpts from the daily press briefing (29.01.19)

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Q : According to certain media outlets, almost 130 French jihadists detained by the Kurdish forces in Syria could be released in the next few weeks. Can you confirm this information? What is the nature of the agreement with the Kurdish forces? How can this decision be justified?

A : The Syrian Democratic Forces are currently holding foreign terrorist fighters, including French nationals, in northeastern Syria. The figure of 130 jihadists put forward by BFM has by no means been confirmed.

In light of developments in the military situation in northeastern Syria and American decisions, and in order to ensure the security of French people, we are exploring all options in order to prevent these potentially dangerous individuals from escaping or dispersing.

If the forces detaining these French fighters decide to deport them to France, they would be immediately handed over to the judicial authorities. These individuals voluntarily joined a terrorist organization that is fighting in the Levant, has committed attacks in France and is continuing to pose a threat to us.

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