Assad-era Syrian reactor was configured for nuclear weapons, IAEA chief says

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief, Rafael Grossi, revealed on Monday that the Assad-era government in Syria was constructing a nuclear reactor designed to produce fissile material for potential nuclear weapons. Grossi stated that the reactor's "configuration" and "technical features" were highly efficient in generating fissile material suitable for nuclear weapon fabrication.

Although Syria never declared this plan, the IAEA considered it a significant proliferation concern. Syria is believed to have operated an extensive undeclared nuclear program during Assad's rule, which included a nuclear reactor built by North Korea in eastern Deir el-Zour province. Following the fall of Assad, the new government agreed to allow IAEA inspectors access to potential former nuclear sites.

Inspectors confirmed in August that the cooling infrastructure at one of the sites was consistent with that of a nuclear reactor. During their visit, inspectors had to dismantle walls and navigate through narrow passages to reach hidden material. The site contained approximately 73 tonnes of natural uranium metal, which the agency later verified.

Grossi confirmed that the material is now under IAEA safeguards and that cameras have been installed at the location.