Syria Says Newly Discovered Nuclear Material Not Dangerous, Will Remain Under National Control

Syrian Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani said on August 18 that nuclear material discovered at an undisclosed location in Syria is “not dangerous” and will remain under Syrian control. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has provided assurances regarding the situation.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Damascus with IAEA Director General Grossi that day, Al-Shaibani stated that Syria has the right to use this nuclear material for civilian and peaceful purposes.

Grossi said the IAEA was able to access the relevant facility and carry out its work after receiving notification from the Syrian government.

Following the end of the Assad government's rule in late 2024, Syria's new government has expressed willingness to cooperate with the IAEA in addressing issues related to nuclear activities left over from past decades.