Iraq moves to repatriate thousands of foreign prisoners, including Moroccans

07:15

By: Azzat Manal

Iraq moves to repatriate thousands of foreign prisoners, including Moroccans

Iraq has begun diplomatic efforts with 61 countries to facilitate the repatriation of nearly 6,000 foreign prisoners held in Iraqi detention facilities, including Moroccan nationals.

According to Iraq’s Ministry of Justice, the process is being coordinated with relevant authorities through diplomatic channels, with the objective of establishing arrangements with the countries concerned and completing the procedures required for the prisoners’ transfer.

The initiative covers Arab and foreign nationals held in Iraqi prisons, with an exception for prisoners sentenced to death. The Iraqi National Security Council had previously approved the move as part of efforts to address the presence of foreign detainees in the country.

Syrian nationals reportedly represent the largest group among the foreign prisoners concerned. Moroccan nationals are also among the notable groups targeted by the repatriation process, alongside citizens of countries including the United States, Canada, Russia, Tunisia and Türkiye.

The issue is closely linked to Iraq’s broader efforts to manage the detention of foreign nationals accused or convicted in cases connected to the Islamic State. The Iraqi authorities transferred thousands of detainees linked to the organization from Syria to Iraqi prisons in February 2026, including 187 Moroccan nationals.

The new diplomatic initiative could therefore pave the way for the return of these prisoners to their countries of origin, provided that the necessary legal and administrative arrangements are completed.

For Iraq, the process represents a significant diplomatic and security undertaking, requiring coordination with dozens of governments. For the countries concerned, the repatriation of their nationals could also raise legal and security considerations, particularly in cases involving terrorism-related convictions.

The next stage is expected to depend on bilateral discussions between Baghdad and the governments concerned, as authorities work to determine the procedures and conditions governing each transfer.