Could the Australian Government Block the ISIS ‘Brides’ From Returning?

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has maintained for months that he has limited power to prevent their return.

A group of supporters shield recently arrived people with links to ISIS as they arrive at Melbourne Airport in Melbourne, Australia, on May 7, 2026. Morgan Hancock/Getty Images

Four ISIS-linked women and their nine children returned to Australia on May 7.

While in Sydney they were ushered off their plane quietly, in Melbourne they were mobbed by supporters and media.