Four years ago, three 15 year old girls flew to Turkey and crossed the border into IS-held territory in Syria. They were British Muslims who had been radicalised on line. Within a few weeks of their arrival, they were married and began their task of bringing new soldiers into the world.
There was considerable publicity about their action at the time. Their parents knew nothing of their intention.
One of these girls, now 19, wants to return to Britain to give birth to her third child - her earlier children had died from malnutrition and disease. There is debate about whether or not this should be allowed, after all, she may act as a kind of fifth columnist and engage in clandestine activities herself. Her comments about atrocities that she has been aware of suggest that she is somewhat blase about IS activities.
My view:
1 She was 15 when she left - she was a child.
2 Her intentions were known to the security services and to the police - but her parents were not informed, nor was any attempt made to stop her or to deradicalise her.
3 She is a UK citizen by birth.
Therefore, I consider that she should be allowed to come "home". She should be carefully monitored and subjected to systematic deradicalisation - the state, through its own inaction, bears much responsibility in this instance. I am aware that deradicalisation is not always successful - but an attempt must be made. She is damaged and some attempt must be made to repair her.
What do others think? Am I being too naive and idealistic?
