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The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed Syria was constructing a nuclear reactor under the leadership of Bashar-al-Assad.

The International Atomic Energy Agency announced that Syria was building a nuclear reactor at Deir ez-Zor in the east of the country. Inspectors from the agency visited two sites in Syria last month and found infrastructure consistent with a nuclear reactor.

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Syria reported the site to the agency on July 17. The agency confirmed the presence of around 73 tons of natural uranium metal in the form of fuel rods with cladding. This nuclear material is currently subject to agency containment and surveillance measures. Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, praised Syria for its transparency and cooperation. He noted that the country's former government failed to report nuclear material, facilities, and activities during the rule of Bashar-al-Assad. Syria has since taken measures to remedy the situation by providing the agency with required nuclear material accounting reports and design information for the facilities.

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