Arrests of Palestinian Refugees in Damascus Raise Concerns

On a recent Wednesday, two men from the Khan al-Shih camp in Damascus were released after being detained for approximately 14 hours. The Palestinian Refugee Portal reported that these arrests were linked to alleged affiliations with the Islamic State (ISIS). The Palestinian NGO involved indicated that the detainees witnessed severe treatment, including beatings and electric shocks, during their interrogations. However, no official explanation was provided for their detainment.

The arrests occurred amidst heightened tensions following protests against the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) involvement in the Abraham Accords. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators had gathered near the UAE embassy, leading to vandalism and a firm response from Syrian security forces. Faez Abu Eid, the director of the NGO, noted that families of the detainees were informed of various allegations, including connections to ISIS, the former Assad regime, and participation in the protests at the embassy.

Despite the release of the two men, reports indicate that several others remain in custody across different areas of Damascus, including Jaramana camp and the Rukn al-Din neighborhood. Abu Eid stated that six individuals from Jaramana camp are still detained without release. The charges against these detainees are vague and vary widely, contributing to a climate of fear among families who are hesitant to come forward due to potential retribution.

The Syrian Ministry of Interior has not provided any clarification regarding the reasons for these arrests or the specific charges against the detainees. This lack of transparency has exacerbated uncertainty within Palestinian camps, which have already faced years of displacement and security abuses. Human rights organizations have expressed concern that the fear of retaliation is hindering efforts to document violations and provide legal support for those detained.

Critics, including rights monitors, have denied claims of a new wave of arrests, asserting that the detentions discussed occurred about a week prior. They emphasize the need for clearer communication from the Syrian government regarding the rationale behind these actions. The ongoing arrests and the associated climate of fear complicate the situation for Palestinian refugees, who are already vulnerable due to their historical and ongoing struggles.

• “Until now, the Syrian Ministry of Interior has not issued any clarification about the reasons for these arrests or the specific charges being brought against the detainees,” — Faez Abu Eid, Director of the Palestinian NGO

• “Families believe that publicly identifying their sons could expose them to further pressure or retaliation while they are in custody” — Faez Abu Eid, Director of the Palestinian NGO

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing concerns about the treatment of Palestinian refugees in Syria and the implications of the recent arrests.