Government of Canada repatriates Canadians from northeastern Syria

July 6, 2023 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

Global Affairs Canada and Public Safety Canada today issued the following statement:

“Canada remains steadfast in prioritizing the safety and security of its citizens, both at home and abroad, and has been particularly concerned about the health and well-being of Canadian children in northeastern Syria. 

“Today, Canada has again taken extraordinary steps to repatriate the remaining 2 Canadian women and 3 children identified in the Bring Our Loved Ones Home litigation.

“Canada extends its gratitude to the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria for its cooperation in conducting another operation under difficult security circumstances. We also thank the United States for its assistance in the repatriation of Canadians and for continuing to play a key role in resolving the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.

“Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to the fight against Daesh and global terrorism while vigorously defending human rights both domestically and abroad. Where there is sufficient evidence, law enforcement and public safety agencies will independently take the necessary steps to keep our communities safe.

“We reiterate that it is a serious criminal offence for anyone to leave Canada to knowingly support a terrorist group and those who engage in these activities will face the full force of Canadian law. We remain committed to taking every possible step to ensure the safety and security of Canadians.

“Due to privacy considerations, we cannot provide information about the repatriated individuals, and for operational security reasons, we cannot share details of the repatriation.”