Libyan Forces Say They Found 10 Missing Uranium Containers Linked to IAEA Report
The Eastern Libyan armed forces have stated they recovered 10 containers of natural uranium that were previously reported missing to the International Atomic Energy Agency on March 15. The claim comes via Reuters, citing the security arm of the paramilitary group that controls much of eastern Libya. The official account notes that these ten containers were located near the Libyan-Chadian border, close to a landfill site used by the group for waste management and storage operations. A separate video release from the eastern forces depicts a larger tally, showing 18 containers in the vicinity according to the agency. This discrepancy underscores the ongoing challenges in corroborating rapid battlefield reports in conflict zones, especially when different branches of the same organization release footage and figures.
Historically, the region has seen tense power struggles and conflicting narratives. In 2019, forces aligned with Khalifa Haftar launched a broad offensive against the U.N. backed Government of National Accord in Tripoli. The operation did not achieve its broader aims, and Haftar has since remained a polarizing figure within Libyan politics. He has repeatedly surfaced as a candidate in discussions about Libya’s presidential elections, positioning himself as a continuing influence in the country’s unstable political landscape. The current assertions about uranium storage echo longer-standing concerns about weapons materials and unregulated stockpiles in zones of conflict.
On March 15, inspectors from the IAEA reported the discovery of 10 containers containing a total of about 2.5 tons of uranium in the form of uranium concentrate. The location of these containers was described as a landfill in Libya, raising questions about the chain of custody, safety procedures, and the monitoring mechanisms in place to prevent diversion of nuclear material. The IAEA’s involvement highlights the international emphasis on securing radioactive materials and ensuring that any potential risks are promptly identified and addressed, even amid political instability and disputed control over territories. Analysts note that such finds, whether confirmed or contested, carry significant implications for regional security, nonproliferation efforts, and the responsibilities of governing authorities in safeguarding sensitive materials.
As the situation develops, observers point to the need for transparent verification processes and independent oversight to resolve conflicting claims about container counts and locations. The reports from Reuters and the IAEA stress the importance of accurate data collection and rapid sharing of information to prevent misinterpretations that could escalate tensions or trigger misinformed policy responses. In the broader context, the Libyan case serves as a reminder of how conflict, governance gaps, and external monitoring intersect in the domain of nuclear material security. The international community continues to monitor developments while urging restraint, collaboration, and rigorous verification to ensure that any material of concern remains accounted for and safeguarded under proper protocols.