Syria: Syria has granted the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) access to a site in the northeastern province of Deir ez-Zor for the first time since 2008, when agency personnel last visited the site. At a joint press conference with IAEA chief Rafael Grossi in Damascus, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani stated that cooperation between Syria and the IAEA had now reached an advanced stage.

According to Anadolu Agency, al-Shaibani emphasized that Syria's approach to the nuclear file is based on transparency. He mentioned that Damascus is dealing with the legacy of the former regime, adding that the 'new Syria' seeks cooperation with the international community.

Grossi expressed gratitude to the Syrian authorities under President Ahmed al-Sharaa for their commitment to working with the IAEA. He highlighted that joint efforts will ensure that Syria's nuclear activities are no longer associated with nuclear weapons. Grossi also revealed that nuclear material dating back to the former regime had been found at a site in Deir ez-Zor.

The IAEA will maintain an inventory of these materials and ensure their safe storage. Former President Bashar al-Assad, who ruled Syria for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia in late 2024, ending the country's decades-long rule by the Baath Party. A transitional government led by al-Sharaa was established in early 2025.