Culture & Entertainment · Malaysia Bureau
UN inspectors find Syrian nuclear reactor near completion under Assad
International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors have discovered that a secret nuclear reactor in Syria was substantially advanced before the regime's fall. The UN nuclear watchdog visited multiple sites after Syrian authorities disclosed the facility's existence.
LSN Malaysia ·
Inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have confirmed that a covert nuclear reactor in Syria was in advanced stages of construction during Bashar al-Assad's rule. The discovery underscores concerns about undisclosed nuclear activities in the conflict-torn nation.
The IAEA team visited two locations, including a site in Deir Ezzor province and another facility identified by Syrian authorities. The inspection marks a significant development in understanding the scope of Syria's nuclear programme, which has been shrouded in secrecy for years.
The reactor's proximity to completion raises questions about the Assad government's nuclear ambitions and the international community's oversight of such sensitive installations. Syria has faced repeated accusations of pursuing covert weapons programmes, and this discovery adds another layer to those concerns.
The IAEA's findings will likely fuel discussions within the UN Security Council and among regional powers about Syria's nuclear capabilities. The agency has indicated it will continue monitoring developments and may conduct further inspections to assess the security and status of nuclear materials at the disclosed sites.