Syria to Allow Immediate Access for UN Inspectors to Suspected Nuclear Sites

Syria’s government has agreed to immediate access for UN inspectors to suspected nuclear sites. IAEA head Rafael Mariano Grossi announced this development in Damascus, indicating a cooperative future for nuclear energy. While past concerns about potential weaponization linger, Syria aims for transparency in its nuclear ambitions amidst regional trends and ongoing US-Iran negotiations.

Syria’s newly formed government has decided to grant immediate access to United Nations inspectors at suspected nuclear sites, as stated by Rafael Mariano Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), during an interview with The Associated Press in Damascus. This comes as part of the IAEA’s initiative to clarify past activities that may have been linked to nuclear weapons.

Grossi discussed his meeting with President Ahmad al-Sharaa and other officials, who expressed a willingness to explore nuclear energy for Syria in the future. “Why not?” Grossi quoted al-Sharaa, highlighting his openness to international cooperation. This signals a potential shift in Syria’s approach following the end of Bashar al-Assad’s regime late last year.

Notably, an IAEA investigation in 2024 examined several sites during Assad’s presidency. With the transition of power, the agency has redoubled its efforts to access locations associated with Syria’s nuclear endeavors. Historical context suggests that the Assad regime developed a secretive nuclear program with help from North Korea, including a reactor designed purportedly not for energy production, raising serious concerns about potential weaponization.

The reactor’s existence became public only after Israel’s airstrikes in 2007 effectively disabled it. Interestingly, Grossi indicated intentions for inspectors to revisit this reactor site in Deir el-Zour, along with three other related facilities, including one in Damascus designed for uranium processing. He explained, “We are trying to narrow down the focus” of their investigation to key areas of interest.

While current reports show no detectable release of radiation, Grossi expressed concern about the possibility of enriched uranium being unlawfully stored, smuggled, or trafficked. The IAEA chief noted that al-Sharaa has been accommodating, showing a positive attitude towards their operations.

In addition to resuming inspections, Grossi mentioned the IAEA’s commitment to providing equipment for nuclear medicine and rebuilding health infrastructure severely strained by years of civil conflict. Al-Sharaa’s interest in nuclear energy mirrors a regional trend, as several neighboring nations pursue similar energy pathways, possibly opting for small modular reactors.

Meanwhile, Grossi touched upon the ongoing dialogues between the United States and Iran regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. He stated that he remains in constant contact with the negotiating teams, emphasizing the IAEA’s role as a potential guarantor of any forthcoming agreement. Despite existing divisions, he indicated he remains optimistic due to both parties expressing a desire for a resolution, which he acknowledged as a favorable condition for negotiations.

Grossi’s remarks shed light on a possibly evolving dynamic within Syria regarding nuclear policy, as it looks to establish itself on the international stage. With a commitment to transparency and collaboration, there are indications that Syria may pave a new path forward in its nuclear ambitions and energy initiatives, amidst broader regional considerations.

In summary, Syria’s new government is making strides toward transparency regarding its past nuclear activities by allowing UN inspectors access to suspected sites. This development reflects a potential shift in Syria’s approach to nuclear energy, which might include exploring small modular reactors similar to neighbors in the region. Additionally, as negotiations progress between the US and Iran regarding nuclear agreements, the IAEA’s role remains crucial, highlighting broader implications for nuclear policy in the Middle East.

Original Source: www.ksat.com