Minister says Australian ISIS-linked 'Doctor Jihad' can rot in Iraqi jail

An Australian pediatrician, Tareq Kamleh, who joined the Islamic State and was known as "Dr Jihad," is reportedly alive and imprisoned in Iraq, prompting calls from Australian politicians to prevent his return. Kamleh was previously believed to have died during the final siege of Raqqa in 2017.

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shouldn't come back

Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has strongly advocated for preventing Kamleh's return, suggesting the government refuse him a passport and issue a temporary exclusion order (TEO). While the government has stated it cannot legally prevent citizens from returning indefinitely, it insists it will not provide assistance to any Australian who joined a terrorist organization. Housing Minister Clare O'Neil has been unequivocal, stating, "As far as I'm concerned, that person can rot in jail."

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pull out all stops

The government's stance is that any returning individuals linked to ISIS will face the "full force of the law." This comes after a previous instance where an Australian woman, Hodan Abby, known as an "ISIS bride," was issued a permit to return to Australia under strict surveillance conditions. She had initially been blocked from returning with a group of women and children. Upon their arrival in Australia, some members of that group faced terrorism and slavery charges.

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As far as I'm concerned, that person can rot in jail.

Kamleh has already been charged by federal police with terrorism offenses, including joining and recruiting for ISIS. The government emphasizes that the safety of the Australian community is its highest priority, indicating a firm resolve to manage the return of such individuals cautiously and with legal repercussions.

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We've been very clear that for some individuals in this cohort, returning to Australia would mean facing the full force of the law.