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Israeli Strike on Syria Hit Nuke Reactor

Partly-built facility based on North Korean model

By Wesley Oliver, Newser Staff

Posted Oct 13, 2007 6:21 PM CDT

(Newser) – Israel's air strike on Syria last month was aimed at a nuclear reactor, US and Israeli intelligence analysts say. The partly-built facility was based on a North Korean model—a link that could harm Pyonyang's new denuclearization deal if Israel can prove that Kim Jong Il helped mount the reactor. US and world officials were mum about the origins of Syria's technology, the New York Times reports.

The strike has divided Washington pols, some calling it premature, as Israel says the attack aimed to “re-establish the credibility of our deterrent power.” Some officials consider the assault a warning to Iran and its nuclear ambitions. Iran and other Arab countries registered no protest over the attack, which may signal that Israel is not alone in fearing a nuclear Syria.

An Israeli helicopter over flying army vehicles during a military training exercise in the Golan Heights Wednesday, Sept. 19, 2007. Syria said Wednesday that Israel's air sortie over the country earlier... (Associated Press)

Vice President Dick Cheney participates in the Iftaar Dinner with ambassadors and Muslim leaders, hosted by President Bush, in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington, Thursday, Oct. 4,... (Associated Press)

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert attends the weekly cabinet... (Getty Images)

Israeli army vehicles are seen during a military training exercise in the Golan Heights in this Sept. 19, 2007 file photo. On Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2007, Israel began to lift its strict veil of secrecy on... (Associated Press)

Israeli army vehicles manoeuver during a military training exercise in the Golan Heights Wednesday, Sept. 19, 2007. Syria said Wednesday that Israel's air sortie over the country earlier this month showed... (Associated Press)

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Israeli Strike on Syria Hit Nuke Reactor

Partly-built facility based on North Korean model

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