Australia’s centre-left government has rejected a media report claiming that authorities were preparing to repatriate Australians held in a detention camp in northern Syria.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke denied reports that the government was making arrangements to bring back a group of 34 women and children linked to families of suspected Islamic State militants. He said the claims that preparations were underway and that consultations had been held with state governments were incorrect.
The group was briefly released from the Syrian camp on Monday but was returned to the detention facility due to technical reasons. They are expected to travel to Damascus before any possible return to Australia, despite opposition from some lawmakers.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stated that the government will not assist in bringing the group back to Australia.
The issue remains politically sensitive in Australia, particularly amid growing support for the anti-immigration One Nation party led by Pauline Hanson.
Islamic State is designated as a terrorist organisation in Australia, and membership in the group is punishable by up to 25 years in prison. Authorities also have the power to revoke the citizenship of dual nationals found to be members of the militant group.
