IAEA begins excavation of suspected Syrian nuclear sites

Inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have begun excavating a site in Deir el-Zour, Syria, believed to be linked to a clandestine nuclear program from the former government. IAEA Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi confirmed that comprehensive exploration is underway at the site and noted that another site containing nuclear material has also been discovered.

Syria’s new government, led by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, has pledged full cooperation with the UN watchdog. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani stated that while the government will retain custody of the discovered nuclear materials, they will be subject to international safeguards and monitoring. The ministry maintains that the material does not pose a danger to the population and that Syria intends to develop a peaceful nuclear energy program.

The discovery brings renewed attention to Syria’s nuclear history, specifically allegations of undeclared activities during the presidency of Bashar al-Assad. This includes the 2007 destruction of a facility in Deir el-Zour, which was suspected of being a covert reactor built with North Korean assistance.