'ISIS bride' to live 'peaceful existence' if granted bail, court hears

A grandmother accused of supporting the Islamic State group in Syria has argued she would lead a "very confined" and "peaceful existence" if granted bail to reside with her family in Melbourne. Kawsar Ahmad, who returned to Australia last month among a group of so-called ISIS brides, faces four slavery-related charges.

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Her instructions to us are that she won't. She'll keep away.

During a multi-day hearing at the Melbourne Magistrates' Court, Ahmad's lawyer, Peter Morrissey SC, contended that his client would lead a "small and local life." This argument addresses prosecutors' concerns that Ahmad might proselytize or engage with mosques if released. Her instructions, he stated, are that she will "keep away" from such activities and would agree to restrictions on her movements, phone use, and not attend specific mosques.

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Should she be able to go and live with her family again and be with her children and her grandchildren and her mother, I am of the opinion that the major depressive disorder will probably improve.

Much of the evidence presented focused on Ahmad's psychological state. Forensic psychologist Michael Davis diagnosed her with anxiety and depression-related disorders, suggesting her isolation in detention caused significant distress. He testified that she is so focused on her family that she is unlikely to leave the house much if released, and her mental health would likely improve. While she has no suicidal ideation, she has indicated that "death would be better" when "really pushed," but cannot leave her children.

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When really pushed, she admits death would be better, but she can't leave her children behind.

The court also heard allegations that Ahmad taught religious studies to a slave, who was a member of the Yazidi minority persecuted by ISIS. A detective read a statement from the complainant, who said Ahmad threatened them with hell if they did not study and that they felt threatened by her. Ahmad, her daughters, and some grandchildren had moved to Syria in early 2015 and allegedly kept a slave while supporting IS.

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Kawsar would not do anything against me but always told me if I did not study, my end would be in hell.