Al-Araji, German ambassador discuss security ties, Al-Hol camp

BAGHDAD —  Iraq’s National Security Adviser Qasim Al-Araji met Saturday with German Ambassador to Iraq Daniel Krebber to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and continued cooperation on shared security concerns, according to a statement from Al-Araji’s office.

Both sides also discussed Al-Hol camp, which the statement described as a “security and humanitarian challenge.”

Al-Hol camp, in northeast Syria, holds more than 50,000 people—mostly women and children, including thousands of Iraqis—detained or displaced as the Islamic State group lost its last territory in 2019. The Syrian Democratic Forces, who oversee the camp, have urged countries to repatriate their citizens, but large numbers, varied backgrounds, and logistical hurdles have complicated the process.

An international conference on Al-Hol camp was held in late September in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, chaired by President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid with broad Iraqi and international participation.

Statement from Al-Araji’s media office:

Iraq’s National Security Adviser, Qasim Al-Araji, received the German Ambassador to Baghdad, Daniel Krebber, at his office on Saturday.

The meeting discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations in a manner that serves the shared interests of both friendly countries. It also emphasized the importance of continuing cooperation and coordination on issues of mutual concern to enhance security, stability, and support development efforts in Iraq.

The discussion also touched on the importance of dismantling Al-Hol camp due to its security and humanitarian challenges, as well as the necessity of maintaining the ceasefire in Gaza, given its direct impact on the security and stability of the Middle East.

Al-Araji affirmed that the Iraqi government is committed to expanding its engagement with countries around the world in a way that advances Iraq’s high interests.