Syrian nuclear site destroyed by IDF in 2007 was useful for weapon production, IAEA chief says

In 2007, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) destroyed a nuclear reactor that Syria was nearly completing, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Grossi. The reactor, located in Syria's eastern province of Deir al-Zor, was of a type that could quickly produce fissile material usable in nuclear weapons, Grossi stated during a press conference.

The IAEA's recent investigation into secret nuclear activities during the Assad family's rule revealed around 73 metric tons of natural uranium metal, primarily in reactor fuel form. The agency confirmed that the bombed site was indeed a nuclear reactor under construction, with fuel for it already made in Syria. This discovery posed a serious proliferation concern, as the reactor was nearly completed, making it a significant threat to global nuclear security.

Since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Syria's new authorities have pledged to cooperate with the IAEA to address questions related to nuclear safeguards—the process of accounting for and monitoring nuclear material. The IAEA has been able to clarify and resolve its outstanding safeguards issues concerning Syria's past nuclear activities, thanks to the cooperation received from Syria.

Grossi expressed his appreciation for Syria's transparency and cooperation, which has facilitated the resolution of outstanding safeguards issues related to Syria's past nuclear activities.