Jane Hume Condemns Government's Stance on ISIS Brides as Safety Concerns Mount
Deputy Opposition Leader Jane Hume has launched a sharp critique against the federal government's approach to Australian ISIS brides stranded in Syria, accusing it of neglecting its duty to protect citizens as pressure builds over their possible repatriation. The government maintains a firm position, refusing to allocate taxpayer funds to assist the women's return, despite advocacy efforts from Sydney doctor Jamal Rifi, who reports that 11 women are willing to face imprisonment if it means securing safety for their children in Australia.
Tense Sunrise Exchange Highlights Safety Fears
During a heated appearance on Sunrise on Monday, Hume emphasized that Australians "rightly expect and deserve to be kept safe". She argued that the government is failing in this responsibility by not ensuring these women and their children remain away from Australian shores as long as they pose a potential threat. Hume insisted that the government must take full control of any return process, stating, "The government can't simply wash its hands of this problem. It has to have full oversight of these women and these children and their journey back to Australia, because otherwise the community could potentially be at risk." She added that unanswered questions have left many Australians justifiably upset.
Government Defends Hardline Position
Health Minister Mark Butler defended the government's stance when pressed by host Nat Barr about why Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has repeatedly declined invitations to discuss the issue on air. Butler stated, "A range of us have been out in the media ... stating the position very clearly. It hasn't changed. We are not going to provide taxpayer resources to help these women come back to Australia." He highlighted that the women made a conscious choice to leave Australia with their partners to support what he described as "one of the most awful death cults we've seen in decades," and thus, taxpayer money should not be used to facilitate their return.
Citizenship Debates and Children's Plight Intensify
The controversy has escalated with reports suggesting that two children, whose mothers are separated from the main group and classified as extremists, might be eligible for Australian citizenship due to their fathers' nationality. Butler expressed uncertainty about verifying these claims during the Sunrise interview. Meanwhile, Dr. Jamal Rifi has revealed that children in the Syrian detention camps are desperately pleading to return home with him, warning that their situation is "in a very unstable position" after being confined for too long.
Political Standoff and Calls for Action
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has reinforced the government's uncompromising stance, asserting, "If you make your bed, you lie in it," and confirming that no assistance will be provided for their repatriation. In response, the Coalition is advocating for stricter legislative measures, urging the government to prioritize national security above all other considerations in this complex and emotionally charged issue.
