IAEA Concludes Review of Syria’s Nuclear Safeguards Agreement


Rabat: The Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has decided to conclude its review of Syria’s adherence to the safeguards agreement under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). This decision comes after it was determined that Syria has taken corrective actions to address violations identified in 2011.



According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the resolution to end the review was presented by an Arab quartet comprising Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan. It states that the previous provisions of resolution GOV/2011/41, adopted on June 9, 2011, are no longer applicable, effectively ending the special oversight regime. This marks a return to standard NPT safeguards in Syria.



The IAEA Board’s 2011 resolution followed findings of undeclared nuclear activities in Syria, specifically the construction of a reactor at Dair Alzour, which constituted a breach of Syria’s safeguard obligations. At that time, Syria was urged to rectify the situation, disclose necessary information, and grant access to relevant sites.



In remarks to the Board, Azzeddine Farhane, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Morocco to international organizations in Vienna, commended the comprehensive report by IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi. Farhane acknowledged the improved cooperation between Damascus and the IAEA and expressed support for Syria’s efforts to enhance collaboration with the Agency through constructive dialogue and mutual trust.