Proposed US-Saudi nuclear energy deal: What we know so far
Summary
President Donald Trump has approved a deal allowing Saudi Arabia to develop a civilian nuclear program that includes the ability to enrich uranium domestically. This move changes long-standing U.S. policy aimed at preventing nuclear proliferation, and the agreement requires congressional approval before U.S. companies can help Saudi Arabia build nuclear facilities.Key Facts
- The deal lets Saudi Arabia pursue uranium enrichment for civilian nuclear energy.
- Uranium enrichment can produce fuel for nuclear power plants but could also be used for weapons if done to higher levels.
- Saudi Arabia has said it would develop nuclear weapons if Iran does so first.
- The agreement could last 30 years and involve companies like Westinghouse from the U.S.
- It does not include some strict non-proliferation measures ("gold standard") used in other U.S. deals, such as banning uranium enrichment.
- The deal might not require the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Additional Protocol, which allows extra inspections to ensure peaceful use.
- Discussions about U.S.-Saudi nuclear cooperation have been ongoing for years and were previously linked to Saudi recognition of Israel under another administration.
- Critics worry the deal weakens U.S. efforts to stop nuclear weapons development in the Middle East.
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