IAEA: 2.5 tons of uranium missing in Libya

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced that 10 barrels containing 2.5 tons of natural uranium in Libya could not be found in the location previously reported by authorities. In a written statement addressed to its board of directors, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reminded that verification and monitoring activities were carried out regarding nuclear materials in the country within the scope of the Safeguards Agreement and the Additional Protocol signed with Libya. The statement conveyed that on March 14, IAEA inspectors determined that 10 barrels containing 2.5 tons of natural uranium, which authorities had previously reported to be stored in a certain location within the scope of the Additional Protocol, were not located in the specified location. The statement noted that the IAEA had taken action to remove the uranium in question from the specified location and to clarify its current status. It was emphasized in the statement that the situation in question should be addressed urgently and an investigation should be launched, and that, “The loss of information about the current location of nuclear material may pose a radiological risk in addition to nuclear security concerns.” It was noted in the statement that the IAEA is ready to provide the necessary assistance in this regard for the implementation of international nuclear safety standards and nuclear safety guidance, and that the IAEA Director Rafael Mariano Grossi will continue to inform the Board of Directors on this matter.