The Deal and Its Provisions
The United States and Saudi Arabia have finalized a 30-year nuclear cooperation agreement, signed by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman. The deal permits Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium domestically, though a joint study over two years will determine the necessity of a facility. The pact, worth tens of billions of dollars, is expected to involve U.S. companies.[S1][S4][S5]
The agreement excludes the 'gold standard' barring enrichment and the IAEA Additional Protocol, which provides rigorous monitoring. The Trump administration says safeguards and a bilateral agreement ensure nonproliferation, but experts express alarm at the lack of oversight.[S1][S2][S3]
Why Saudi Arabia Wants Nuclear Power
Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter, seeks nuclear power to reduce domestic oil consumption and free up crude for export under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030. Currently, most electricity comes from burning oil and gas, and atomic power could displace some of that, including for water desalination and air conditioning.[S1][S2][S3]
Riyadh has stated it would need a nuclear weapon if Iran acquires one, raising concerns about its intentions. The deal is worth tens of billions and involves American companies like Westinghouse.[S1][S2][S4]
Proliferation Concerns and Opposition
The pact has alarmed nonproliferation experts and U.S. allies like Israel, who fear it could trigger a regional arms race. Senator Chris Murphy, a Democrat, said the agreement would 'set off a nuclear race in the region, further disincentivizing Iran from limiting its own program.'[S1][S3]
While the U.S. is at war with Iran partly to prevent its nuclear program, Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed concerns, stating the U.S. would not reach an agreement that risks proliferation. Critics note the deal lacks the oversight and guardrails of past accords.[S1][S2][S5]
What Comes Next
The deal has been submitted to Congress, which has 90 legislative days to block it with a two-thirds majority to override a presidential veto. Democrats have expressed opposition, but overcoming a veto is difficult.[S1][S3][S5]
