France to Repatriate French Jihadists Detained in Iraq, Says Gérald Darmanin

French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin confirms the repatriation of French jihadists from Iraq to serve their sentences in France.

French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has announced that France will repatriate several French jihadists currently detained in Iraq to serve their prison sentences on French soil. The decision, revealed in an interview with La Voix du Nord on April 25, 2025, has sparked debate amid concerns over security and public opposition.

Darmanin Justifies Repatriation on Principle of Reciprocity

Responding to a question about three French nationals from northern France sentenced to life imprisonment in Iraq, Darmanin stated, “Yes, as is the case for many French detainees worldwide, in Iran or elsewhere.” He justified the move by emphasizing reciprocity in international relations: “French nationals must serve their sentences in France. We cannot ask Algeria, Morocco, or the United States to take back their nationals under an OQTF [expulsion order] and refuse to repatriate French citizens detained abroad.”

The French Foreign Ministry has yet to comment on Darmanin’s announcement, leaving some details unclear, including the timeline and number of individuals involved.

Lawyers Urge Swift Action Amid Harsh Prison Conditions

Lawyers representing the detained jihadists welcomed Darmanin’s statement but called for immediate action. Marie Dosé, attorney for Djamila Boutoutaou, said, “The Justice Minister’s words are a step in the right direction, but they must be turned into actions quickly.” She highlighted her client’s critical health condition, stating, “She is gravely ill and needs urgent repatriation.”

Richard Sédillot, who represents several convicted French nationals, argued that repatriation would aid reintegration and ongoing investigations. “Reintegration is far easier to manage with family visits,” he said. “Their presence in France also allows French judges to question them.” Sédillot also condemned the “inhumane conditions” in Iraqi prisons, noting that a Paris judge is investigating allegations of torture against six French detainees in Baghdad.

Public Opinion Divided on Jihadist Repatriation

The decision comes at a time when French public opinion remains strongly opposed to repatriating jihadists. A 2019 Odoxa-Dentsu Consulting poll found that 82% of French citizens supported trying jihadists in Iraq, while 89% expressed concern about their return to France. The poll’s authors noted, “Faced with perceived risks, legal principles, freedoms, and even the death penalty carry little weight for citizens.”

The repatriation plan is likely to reignite debates over national security, terrorism management, and the balance between justice and public safety.

Why This Matters

Repatriating jihadists poses complex challenges for France, including ensuring secure detention, facilitating reintegration, and addressing public fears of terrorism. The move also reflects France’s commitment to international legal norms, as Darmanin’s reciprocity argument suggests. However, with investigations into Iraqi prison conditions ongoing, the government faces pressure to act swiftly to protect its citizens’ rights while maintaining public trust.

Key Takeaways

• Gérald Darmanin announced the repatriation of French jihadists detained in Iraq.
• The decision is justified by the principle of reciprocity in international relations.
• Lawyers demand urgent action due to harsh prison conditions and health concerns.
• Public opinion remains largely opposed, with 89% worried about jihadists’ return.

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Sources: La Voix du Nord, Odoxa-Dentsu Consulting 2019 Poll.