IAEA Confirms Syria's Attempt to Build Nuclear Reactor Under Assad
Summary
The IAEA has confirmed that Syria under Bashar al-Assad attempted to build a nuclear reactor in Deir ez-Zor, with evidence pointing to reactor-related structures and undeclared nuclear materials. The agency says it will continue inspections as Syria’s new government allows access to suspected former nuclear sites.
Key Points
- The IAEA says an attempt was made to construct a nuclear reactor in Deir ez-Zor during Bashar al-Assad’s rule.
- Inspectors found a cooling structure consistent with those used in nuclear reactors and reported uranium particles at the site.
- The report says Syrian officials failed to fully disclose nuclear materials, facilities and activities to the agency.
- The new Syrian government has allowed IAEA access, and inspections are continuing at suspected former nuclear sites.
