Originally posted by the Voice of America.
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In Syria, Captured Islamic State Fighters, Followers Going Home

Jeff Seldin

   PENTAGON - A growing number of fighters and followers captured during
   the final battles to defeat the Islamic State terror group's
   self-declared caliphate are being released in Syria, with some facing
   justice and others being given a chance to restart their lives.

   Once held under heavy guard in makeshift prisons or in camps for
   displaced persons, dozens of fighters and hundreds of so-called
   IS-affiliated persons have made the journey home since late last year,
   according to U.S. and U.N. officials.

   And while the prospect of allowing some former IS fighters and
   followers to mingle in communities freed from the terror group's grip
   has, in some cases, raised tensions, U.S. officials, so far, have been
   pleased with the results.

   "We see these SDF [Syrian Democratic Forces]return-and-reintegration
   initiatives as positive," a State Department official told VOA, asking
   for anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the program.

   "They have been successful in holding fighters to account and also
   reintegrating some individuals and a significant number of families
   back into Syrian communities, usually under tribal and family
   oversight," the official added.

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