The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has commenced excavation activities at a site in Syria that is reputedly linked to a covert nuclear programme previously managed by the former regime. This development was confirmed by IAEA Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi during a press conference held in Damascus on Thursday.

Grossi stated that the excavation work is taking place in Deir el-Zour, a location of significant interest due to its association with allegations of undeclared nuclear operations. The initiative follows Syria’s commitment under its new leadership to fully cooperate with international nuclear oversight.

Syria’s current administration has expressed a desire to establish a peaceful nuclear programme, which includes a promise to maintain international safeguards over any nuclear materials within its jurisdiction.

Details of Nuclear Material and Possible Risks

During his address, Grossi highlighted the importance of Syria’s cooperation, stating that a few tons of nuclear material are under scrutiny, which could potentially be misused. He reassured that this material will be subject to the IAEA’s safeguard protocols to ensure its secure management.

Asaad al-Shibani, Syria’s Foreign Minister, affirmed the country’s stance regarding the nuclear material, emphasising that it poses no hazards based on technical evaluations. He pledged that it would remain under Syria’s authority while adhering to international oversight standards.

Historically, Syria was accused of operating an undeclared nuclear programme under former President Bashar Assad, which reportedly included a reactor constructed with North Korean assistance in Deir el-Zour. Following Israeli airstrikes in 2007 that destroyed the facility, Syria reportedly levelled the site and provided insufficient answers to IAEA inquiries regarding its nuclear activities.

Background on IAEA’s Engagement with Syria

Prior to the recent developments, the IAEA had been granted access to a limited number of sites during Assad’s governance. However, with the establishment of interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s government, there has been an official commitment for increased transparency and inspections at suspected nuclear sites.

The IAEA’s prior investigations revealed traces of uranium at one of the sites in 2025, highlighting ongoing concerns about Syria’s historical nuclear activities. The new administration’s openness to inspections may facilitate a clearer understanding of the country’s past endeavours in nuclear development.

While Israel is widely perceived to be the only nation in the Middle East possessing nuclear arms, it has not publicly acknowledged a formal nuclear programme. The recent inspections at Deir el-Zour and an additional site represent a renewed attempt to scrutinise Syria’s historical nuclear pursuits amid its aspirations for peaceful nuclear energy development.

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