Baghdad: Deputy Chief of Staff of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), Yasser al-Issawi, has stated that transferring ISIS prisoners to Iraq is a strategic move aimed at bolstering national security. He emphasized that maintaining control over these prisoners is preferable to the risk of them being at large in unsecured areas.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Issawi revealed that the total population of ISIS prisoners stands at around 10,000. Out of these, 7,000 are slated to be transferred to Iraq. He also mentioned that three prisoners have escaped and currently pose a security risk, as their locations remain unknown.

Al-Issawi further explained that the prisoners transferred to Iraq will be detained as security depots, with no specific timeline for resolving their cases. This decision is informed by thorough security evaluations and considerations.

The Deputy Chief of Staff also noted that the Popular Mobilization Forces consist of approximately 250,000 fighters, who are prepared to tackle any emerging security threats or challenges.