Assad-era Syrian reactor was configured for nuclear weapons, IAEA chief says
Summary
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said Syria's nuclear reactor, built during President Bashar Assad's time, was set up to make materials that can be used for nuclear weapons. The IAEA found about 73 tonnes of natural uranium at a secret site in Syria and has placed it under safeguards, but it is up to Syria to decide what will happen next.Key Facts
- Syria built a nuclear reactor during President Bashar Assad’s leadership that was capable of producing material for nuclear weapons.
- The reactor was undeclared and denied by Syria before being discovered.
- The reactor’s design was efficient for making fissile material, which can be used in nuclear weapons.
- The IAEA visited Syria, confirmed cooling systems consistent with a nuclear reactor, and found a secret site with nuclear materials.
- Around 73 tonnes of natural uranium metal in fuel rods were discovered at this new site.
- Inspectors had to break through walls and tight spaces to access the hidden nuclear material.
- The uranium is now under international safeguards with cameras monitoring the site.
- It is uncertain whether the nuclear material will remain in Syria or be moved; this decision is up to the Syrian government.
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