Damned if you don't
Labor has long avoided dealing with the issue of the remaining 'ISIS brides'. But the return of six Australian citizens from Syria is forcing its hand.
The future of about 60 ISIS-linked Australians in Syrian camps has long posed legal and moral challenges. This week, though, the political challenge was on full display.
Revelations that six Australians — two women and four children — are back in the country have left the Albanese government hamstrung, legally unable to prevent the return of a politically radioactive cohort.
“They have supported a brutal, heinous terrorist organisation … We don't want them here,” frontbencher Angus Taylor declared.
Given ISIS’ crimes, many voters agree. Fears of a backlash led Labor to shelve plans to repatriate remaining Australians — including children growing up in dangerous camps — midway through last year.
