Iraq repatriates 1,905 Syrian soldiers who fled opposition offensive

Iraq’s Security Media Cell announced Thursday the return of 1,905 Syrian soldiers to the new Syrian authorities.

Additionally, 36 Syrian workers at the Al-Bukamal border crossing were repatriated at their own request.

Iraqi authorities stated that the process of returning the Syrian soldiers, who sought refuge in Iraq two weeks ago, began on Thursday via land routes in coordination with Syrian officials.

Brig. Gen. Muqdad Miri, spokesperson for the Security Media Cell, confirmed in a statement to the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that the operation was conducted in full coordination with the relevant Syrian authorities.

Hundreds of Syrian soldiers fled the front lines after the opposition began a lightning offensive that culminated in the toppling of Bashar Al-Assad.

At the time, the soldiers had been allowed through the Al-Qaim border crossing. Some were also wounded.