WASHINGTON/DAMASCUS (Hornpost) — The United States, Syria, and Israel have reached a diplomatic agreement allowing the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to remove nuclear material from an undeclared site in Syria following months of confidential negotiations, according to officials familiar with the discussions.
The agreement marks a significant step in regional diplomacy and international nuclear nonproliferation efforts, providing the IAEA with access to secure and remove sensitive nuclear material from the previously undisclosed location.
The deal follows months of secret correspondence among the three governments and reflects a rare instance of cooperation involving countries that have long maintained strained or hostile relations.
The transfer of the nuclear material will be carried out under the supervision of the IAEA, the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, with the objective of ensuring the material is safely removed and managed in accordance with international nuclear safeguards.
Although officials have not publicly disclosed the location of the site or the quantity and type of nuclear material involved, the agreement is expected to reduce concerns over nuclear proliferation and contribute to broader regional security.
The arrangement also underscores the growing role of quiet diplomacy in addressing sensitive security issues in the Middle East, where nuclear activities have remained a source of international concern for decades.
Analysts say the agreement could serve as a confidence-building measure between Syria and the international community while demonstrating continued U.S. engagement in regional security alongside Israel.
The IAEA has long sought greater transparency regarding Syria’s nuclear activities, including investigations into undeclared facilities and nuclear material. The latest agreement could represent an important breakthrough in efforts to resolve outstanding safeguards issues through diplomatic engagement rather than confrontation.
Prepared by:
Horn Post Staff
