Australian Home Affairs Minister Confirms Return of 13 Family Members Linked to Islamic State from Syria

Australia's home affairs minister, Tony Burke, stated that 13 members of Australian families linked to Islamic State fighters in Syria are set to return to the country. The group consists of four women and nine children, with their arrival expected very soon.

Burke described the situation in a statement. >"These are people who have made the horrific choice to join a dangerous terrorist organisation and to place their children in an unspeakable situation," Burke said.

Burke added that any individuals in the group who have committed crimes will face legal consequences. Law enforcement and intelligence agencies have prepared for this return since 2014, with plans to manage and monitor the group. The agencies have longstanding arrangements for such cases.

Burke stated that the group received no assistance from the government for their travel. The return follows years of preparation amid ongoing security considerations. Officials emphasized the readiness of agencies to handle the situation upon arrival.