13-year-old Syrian Attempted to Reunite with Mother via Occupied Territories

A 13-year-old Syrian boy, who had been reported missing, was found in the occupied territories on Tuesday, August 12, according to an announcement by Hope for Children. Police confirmed that the 13-year-old is in good health, and information is awaited from the occupation authorities regarding his return to the free areas.

The organization "Hope For Children" clarified that the minor had been residing in a facility run by the organization since June 23, 2025, after being referred by the Social Welfare Services. The organization denied reports of bullying.

According to the announcement, on August 6, the 13-year-old informed the staff that he would buy food from a store near the shelter. When he was late in returning, the staff searched and learned that the 13-year-old intended to return to his mother, who is in Turkey. The police were immediately informed of the disappearance.

All indications suggest that the 13-year-old tried to reunite with his mother through illegal means, motivated by nostalgia. It is noted that in the existing legal framework, there is no legal procedure for reunification with a parent from a third country when the minor is in an EU country as an asylum seeker.

The case raises questions about the causes of flight of children with a migration background and the migration policy.