Shamima Begum who lost her case at the Court of Appeal today (Image: Getty)
After ’s lawyer claimed the toppling of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad makes the former Jihadi bride’s return to the UK more likely, today Express.co.uk readers are being asked if she should ever be allowed back.
British-born Begum gained international notoriety in 2015 when, at the age of 15, she left the UK with two school friends to join the (IS) in .
The trio travelled to IS-controlled territory via Turkey, where Begum eventually married a Dutch IS fighter.
Over the next few years, she lived within the so-called Caliphate, and reportedly witnessed atrocities committed by the group, although she has denied active participation in violence.
In 2019, Begum was discovered in a Syrian refugee camp after fleeing during the terrorist group’s collapse. She expressed a desire to return to the UK, citing the harsh conditions in the camp and her need for safety.
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However, her apparent lack of contrition when it came to the atrocities committed by IS angered many.
Her case became mired in controversy when then-Home Secretary Sajid Javid stripped her of British citizenship, arguing that she posed a threat to national security.
This decision has been upheld despite her appeals, with UK courts ruling that she cannot return to challenge the decision in person.
Speaking to the Telegraph, lawyer Tasnime Akunjee said if the camp, in the north of the country, was now shut down that could be a “relevant factor” in any future court hearing, adding: “Watch this space.”
Syrians celebrate the fall of the Assad regime (Image: Getty)
The prospect of Begum returning to the UK has sparked heated debate.
Supporters argue that she was a minor when she was groomed and trafficked to Syria and that the UK has a duty to rehabilitate its citizens rather than abandon them.
Critics, however, view her as a willing participant in a terrorist organisation responsible for widespread atrocities.
They assert that allowing her back could pose security risks and undermine the government’s stance on combating extremism.