IAEA Finds Uranium Particles at Syrian Site, Sparking Nuclear Concerns

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported the discovery of anthropogenic natural uranium particles at a site in Syria's Deir el-Zour province, previously suspected to be part of a clandestine nuclear program under former President Bashar al-Assad. This site was destroyed by Israeli airstrikes in 2007 and subsequently leveled by Syrian authorities.

The IAEA's findings are based on environmental samples collected from three related locations, revealing uranium particles indicative of chemical processing typical in nuclear reactor fuel cycles. IAEA spokesman Fredrik Dahl stated, "Some of these uranium particles are consistent with the conversion of uranium ore concentrate to uranium oxide," a process typical of nuclear power reactors.

In 2007, Israel conducted an airstrike, known as Operation Outside the Box, targeting a facility in Deir el-Zour province. The Israeli government later confirmed the operation in 2018, stating that the facility was a suspected nuclear reactor. The IAEA concluded in 2011 that the site was "very likely" to have been a nuclear reactor that Syria should have declared. Syria, however, denied these allegations, claiming the site was a conventional military base.

Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024, Syria's interim government, led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa, has expressed interest in civilian nuclear energy and is cooperating with the IAEA to clarify past nuclear activities. In June 2025, IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi met with President al-Sharaa, who agreed to full transparency and cooperation, including granting more site access. The IAEA plans to revisit Deir el-Zour for further analysis and to address unresolved questions regarding Syria’s historical nuclear activities.

Director-General Grossi noted that President al-Sharaa had expressed an interest in pursuing nuclear energy for Syria in the future, particularly small modular reactors, which are cheaper and easier to deploy than traditional large ones.

The discovery of uranium traces at the Deir el-Zour site underscores longstanding concerns about nuclear proliferation in the Middle East. Syria's renewed cooperation with the IAEA and interest in civilian nuclear energy could signal a shift towards transparency and adherence to international norms. However, the region's complex geopolitical landscape necessitates careful monitoring to ensure that nuclear developments are for peaceful purposes.

The IAEA's recent findings in Syria highlight the enduring challenges of nuclear non-proliferation and the importance of international cooperation. As Syria navigates its post-Assad era, its engagement with the IAEA and interest in civilian nuclear energy will be pivotal in shaping regional security dynamics.