Syria’s chemical weapons arsenal poses a grave threat as the Assad regime collapses, raising fears of terrorist acquisition.
At a Glance
- Syria’s unaccounted chemical weapons are a significant concern as Assad’s regime falls
- The OPCW doubts the completeness of Syria’s 2013 chemical weapons declaration
- Israel is conducting airstrikes on suspected chemical weapons sites in Syria
- Terrorist groups like ISIS have previously used chemical weapons in the region
- International efforts are underway to prevent proliferation and hold Syria accountable
Unaccounted Chemical Weapons Raise Alarms
The collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria has intensified concerns over the country’s chemical weapons stockpile. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is closely monitoring the situation, focusing on chemical weapons-related sites and other locations of interest. UN officials have described Syria’s unaccounted for chemical weapons as “extremely worrying,” highlighting the potential danger if these weapons fall into the wrong hands.
The OPCW has expressed doubts about the completeness of Syria’s 2013 chemical weapons declaration, with significant amounts still unaccounted for. This lack of transparency has raised concerns among international observers and security experts about the true extent of Syria’s chemical arsenal.
Assad's fall brings 'the moment' to rid Syria of chemical weapons https://t.co/nBIdYQSbYD pic.twitter.com/yruzqWOfmA
— Reuters (@Reuters) December 9, 2024
Israel Takes Action to Neutralize Threat
In response to the growing threat, Israel has been conducting airstrikes on suspected chemical weapons sites in Syria. These preemptive measures aim to prevent these deadly weapons from falling into the hands of extremist groups or being used against civilian populations. The Israeli military’s actions underscore the seriousness of the situation and the potential regional implications of Syria’s chemical weapons program.
“monitoring closely the recent developments in Syria, with special attention to the status of its chemical weapons-related sites and other locations of interest.” – The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
The OPCW has documented at least 17 cases of chemical weapon use by the Assad regime during the civil war, highlighting the regime’s willingness to deploy these banned weapons against its own people. This history of use makes the current situation even more concerning, as it demonstrates the real potential for these weapons to be employed if they fall into the wrong hands.
Terrorist Acquisition: A Clear and Present Danger
The threat of terrorist groups acquiring chemical weapons is not hypothetical. Earlier this year, the Islamic State group was found to have used mustard gas in Marea, Syria. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by these weapons in the hands of extremist organizations. With the Assad regime’s collapse, there are fears that other terrorist groups, such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), may attempt to seize control of chemical weapons sites.
“Syria’s unaccounted for chemical weapons are “extremely worrying,”” – UN official
While HTS claims it will not use remaining chemical weapons and will work to secure sites, skepticism remains due to its past al-Qaeda ties. The international community remains vigilant, recognizing that the group’s assurances cannot be taken at face value given the high stakes involved.
International Response and Future Actions
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has voiced support for international efforts to hold the Assad regime accountable for chemical weapon use. U.S. Ambassador Nicole Shampaine has warned of the proliferation risk posed by Syria’s undeclared chemical weapons, emphasizing the need for swift action to address this threat.
We will support international efforts to hold the Assad regime and its backers accountable for atrocities and abuses perpetrated against the Syrian people, including the use of chemical weapons and the unjust detention of civilians such as Austin Tice.https://t.co/BMIOA8fDFN
— Department of State (@StateDept) December 10, 2024
Some experts suggest a U.S.-Israel collaboration to destroy remaining Syrian chemical weapons capabilities. This proposed cooperation underscores the seriousness with which the international community views the threat and the need for decisive action to neutralize it.
As streams of refugees return to Syria hoping for peace, the international community must remain vigilant. The potential for these weapons to cause mass casualties and destabilize the region cannot be overstated. Continued monitoring, international cooperation, and decisive action will be crucial in ensuring that Syria’s chemical weapons do not become a tool for terror in the hands of extremist groups.
