Sisters face trial in Norway for alleged support of ISIS

The defense is seeking complete acquittal for the elder sister among two individuals facing charges related to supporting the terrorist organization ISIS. The proceedings for the elder sister, who traveled to Syria in 2013, began on Friday. Prosecutors have requested a four-year prison sentence, claiming she acted as a “strongly ideologically motivated supporter” of ISIS. Her attorney, Geir Lippestad, contends that the evidence tells a different story.

At the age of 19, she departed from her home in Bærum, Norway, with her younger sister, flying to Turkey before crossing into Syria. In recent weeks, they have explained to the court their intentions to assist local civilians, asserting they were not affiliated with ISIS. Lippestad remarked that the situation in Syria at that time was akin to today’s Gaza—marked by chaos and violence, with young people feeling compelled to respond to the suffering of the Syrian people.

While prosecutors presented evidence showing searches related to Islamism and armed struggle before their departure, the defense argued the sisters engaged in humanitarian efforts instead, including fundraising activities. They emphasize that the elder sister had sought to help those in need, with no indications of radicalization.

Despite her marrying a Norwegian ISIS fighter shortly after her arrival, Lippestad maintains there was no prior agreement for the marriage, highlighting the grim realities she faced upon entering Syria.

As the trial of the two sisters, who have been on trial for seven weeks, nears conclusion, prosecutors are pushing for sentences of four and two years. A ruling is anticipated in late January.