OPCW finds dozens of undeclared chemical weapons in Syria

International inspectors have discovered dozens of previously undeclared chemical weapons in Syria in recent weeks, according to a report from the global chemical weapons watchdog. The findings underscore the persistent challenge of securing the country's remaining stockpiles years after it pledged to disarm.

The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) stated in its May report that its inspectors, deployed at the start of the month, verified several high-priority undeclared locations. Dozens of chemical munitions, including aerial bombs and rockets, were found at these sites. The inspection team, operating with the backing of Syrian authorities, also located chemicals, related equipment, and thousands of pages of documentation. The materials are currently being analyzed.

When Syria joined the OPCW in 2013 under international pressure, it declared chemical weapons present at 26 locations. The watchdog has long maintained that declaration was incomplete, stating it has reason to believe the country had an additional 100 sites. The recent discoveries are part of ongoing efforts to verify the accuracy and completeness of Syria's initial disclosure.