Belgian Ex-ISIS Fighter’s Return Sparks Controversy Amid Terrorism Concerns

Fatima B. is "a very fragile, hungry and vulnerable woman, in a depressive state, but was relieved to be back in Belgium". These are the words of Me Lahlali, lawyer of this former ISIS fighter. The latter had been arrested with her sister Rahma B. and both had been convicted in absentia by the Belgian justice system to five years in prison, for participation in the activities of a terrorist group, namely the Islamic State, reports 7sur7.

While for the moment, Fatima has not yet opposed this judicial decision, her lawyer argues that she has made "complete and truthful statements". As for her story as it appeared in the media, "I can tell you that it is completely false", emphasizes Me Lahlali.

According to the lawyer, what seems more important to note about this woman who wants to rebuild a normal life today is that she would have fled the ISIS strongholds "years ago". Moreover, he continues, "she would have been confronted, in the camps in northern Syria, with Syrian women who strictly respect the ideology of the Islamic State. In these places described as "true radicalization camps", the lawyer notes that his client was a "true victim of horrible abuse".

Hoping that a forensic doctor can observe persistent physical traces on his client, Me Lahlali is surprised by the stance adopted by Belgium, which refuses to "respond to the many calls for help for returns".