Syria Affirms Ongoing Threat from Chemical Weapons Remnants and Reactivates OPCW Mission
Syria’s permanent representative to the OPCW, Mohammed Katuob, confirmed that chemical weapons remnants still pose a serious threat in several areas of Syria. The OPCW’s fact-finding mission has resumed work after suspension, though Syria’s voting rights remain withdrawn. About 100 suspected chemical weapons sites are listed, with 23 visited by national teams. Syria emphasizes justice for victims and cooperation with OPCW member states.
Mohammed Katuob, Syria’s permanent envoy to the OPCW, stated that chemical weapons remnants from the Assad-era program continue to pose direct risks to civilians in several Syrian regions. The OPCW fact-finding mission, after months of suspension, has resumed its activities, although Syria’s voting rights within the organization remain suspended. Syria has identified around 100 locations suspected of containing chemical weapons remnants; national teams have inspected 23 of these sites. Katuob highlighted Syria’s commitment to seeking justice for chemical weapons victims and holding perpetrators accountable, which remains central to Syria’s stance on the issue. Additionally, he underscored efforts to attract technical support from OPCW member states and praised the cooperation already in place. This follows recent developments where Syria reactivated its permanent mission to the OPCW and engaged in dialogue aimed at the destruction and verification of remaining chemical weapons. The OPCW continues to support verification, investigation, and elimination efforts in Syria, despite challenges linked to the legacy of the Assad regime’s secretive chemical weapons program.
