IAEA finds tons of nuclear material hidden in Syria

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has found several tons of nuclear material at a site in Syria that had not been declared by the previous regime. This discovery came after Damascus alerted the UN agency about the nuclear 'legacy' of the ousted regime.

Rafael Grossi, director of the IAEA, confirmed that the agency gained access to the site after receiving a letter from the Syrian government, dated July 17, informing about the situation. Grossi emphasized that the new Syrian administration cooperated with the IAEA by allowing the inspection.

Additionally, Grossi praised the decision of the new Syrian authorities, considering it a positive action. The Syrian authorities informed the IAEA about the discovery of the nuclear material, which allowed for the agency's investigation.

This situation arises in a context where the previous regime had kept the issue of nuclear material shrouded in secrecy. Access to the site and the discovery of undeclared substances raise questions about the transparency of the Syrian nuclear program.

In a statement, the IAEA reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring and investigating nuclear situations in various countries, including Syria. The agency intends to continue cooperating with the new Syrian government to ensure proper oversight of the nuclear material found.

Details regarding the exact quantity and type of nuclear material uncovered have not yet been disclosed, but the IAEA is processing the information to determine the implications and management of the located material.