Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has confirmed that it has not engaged in any discussions with Syrian authorities regarding the repatriation of a group of Australian women and children associated with the Islamic State terrorist organization.

This statement comes in response to remarks from a Syrian government representative who claimed that the Australian government played a crucial role in facilitating the group’s return.

The Syrian official indicated that the delays were attributed to the Australian government, which needed to establish the necessary protocols for the women and children’s arrival.

Thirteen individuals, comprising women and children with ties to IS fighters, are anticipated to arrive in Australia today after spending nearly seven years in a detention facility in Syria.

The group had been awaiting their transfer in Damascus for close to two weeks prior to this development.

However, a DFAT representative clarified that Australian officials had not participated in any talks regarding the situation. “DFAT officials have not had any contact with Syrian officials about Australian women and children,” the spokesperson stated, adding that “the Australian government is not repatriating people from Syria.”

ABC News has reached out to the Home Affairs Department for further clarification.