IAEA to Remove Hidden Uranium in Syria Amid Israeli Threats of Strikes

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is set to soon remove nuclear material concealed in a secret Syrian site dating back to the Assad regime. The material, including uranium powder, is stored at a covert location known as "Site 99," which was formerly part of a nuclear reactor complex. Despite Israel's 2007 airstrike that largely destroyed Syria's nuclear program, some nuclear substances remain, raising concerns about the potential creation of a "dirty bomb", an explosive device that disperses radioactive material.

Reports indicate that diplomatic discussions mediated by the IAEA have been ongoing to determine the best approach to neutralize this threat. When the Trump administration raised the issue with the Syrian government, Syrian officials, including militant leader Abu Mohammad al-Julani, claimed ignorance of the nuclear material's existence. A U.S. source noted that very few people in the U.S., Israel, or Syria were aware of the hidden uranium.

Following the fall of Assad's regime, the IAEA inspected the site, while the Trump administration sought a diplomatic agreement to secure the material and prevent escalation involving Israel, Syria, and possibly Turkey. This development reflects the U.S. administration's strategy of leveraging improved relations with Syria's new government to defuse potential crises. Israeli officials have threatened military strikes if the nuclear material is not removed. The White House, IAEA, and Israeli Prime Minister's office declined to comment, but a U.S. official told Axios that the removal process is expected to begin within the year.