Syria Uncovers Undeclared Chemical Weapons Stockpiles

The OPCW reports finding unexplored chemical munitions in Syria from Bashar Assad's regime, following Syria's previous assertions of having only limited sites. The current Syrian government under Ahmad al-Sharaa is dedicated to dismantling these remnants with international assistance.

In recent weeks, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has identified a number of previously undisclosed chemical bombs and rockets in Syria. These findings date back to the period of Bashar Assad's rule, according to a May report from the global chemical weapons watchdog.

After joining the OPCW in 2013, Syria acknowledged the existence of chemical weapons at 26 sites. However, the OPCW believes Syria could have as many as 100 sites containing such munitions. Following Assad's overthrow in late 2024, the interim government led by Ahmad al-Sharaa has pledged to dismantle all remaining chemical weapons. Interim President al-Sharaa has also sought international support for this mission to eradicate these weapons, aiming for compliance with international laws and justice for victims of chemical attacks.

The OPCW's recent inspections have also revealed the past use of chemical weapons by both the Assad regime and the Islamic State group during ongoing conflicts. Syria initially joined the OPCW to avert airstrikes following a suspected chemical attack in Damascus, despite Assad's denial of using chemical agents.