In the latest report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), astonishing details about Syria's efforts to build a secret nuclear reactor have been published. This report examines two locations in Syria, one of which is located in Deir ez-Zor and the other is in an unspecified location introduced to the agency. According to agency officials, this reactor had progressed to the point where it could produce the fissile materials needed for the construction of nuclear weapons.
A Project in the Shadows
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, emphasized in his statements that evidence shows the previous Syrian government was seeking to conduct covert activities and did not want the world to be aware of its nuclear programs. He stated that this reactor, due to its technical features and specific configuration, is highly efficient in producing fissile materials.
Some sources believe that Syrian officials may have previously carried out explosions to eliminate any possibility of investigation regarding this project. Additionally, the agency has discovered that in the Deir ez-Zor site, there is a facility for producing nuclear fuel and a location for storing uranium waste.
Continuing Ambiguities
Despite this new information, the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) has reported the existence of lingering questions and ambiguities regarding this project. This institute has stated that although the new details confirm past efforts, there is still not enough information about the full scope of this project and Syria's collaborations with North Korea.
In recent years, Syria has been under intense international scrutiny, and in ۲۰۱۱, the agency announced that these locations were likely hosting a nuclear reactor. Grossi also noted that the decision to close the case related to this issue rests with the IAEA board, and currently, no investigations have been conducted regarding possible connections with North Korea.
