On May 7, three women—Zeinab Ahmed (31), Janai Safar (32), and Kawsar Abbas (53)—were arrested at Melbourne Airport, Australia, upon their return from Syria. They are linked to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and face serious charges, including terrorism and international slavery offences. These charges stem from their activities dating back to 2015, when they allegedly traveled to Syria to marry ISIS fighters. The women are part of a larger group known as 'ISIS brides', which includes four Australian women and several children who had joined the group before its territorial collapse in 2019. Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt noted that the charges could lead to sentences ranging from 10 to 25 years. The women had been held for several years at Al Roj camp, which was controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces until recent conflicts led to a change in control. Their return has ignited a political controversy in Australia, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's government facing criticism for its handling of the situation. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that the women would receive no assistance beyond their passports. The case highlights ongoing issues regarding individuals linked to ISIS who remain in detention in Syria, with estimates suggesting that between 30 and 65 UK-linked individuals are still held in similar camps.