Trump approves deal with Saudi Arabia that could allow kingdom to enrich nuclear fuel, official says

President Donald Trump has reportedly approved a 30-year nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia, which could permit the kingdom to enrich its own fuel for civilian reactors. The agreement, expected to be announced soon, involves American companies supplying technology and expertise to develop the Saudi nuclear program.

This potential development could prove controversial both within the United States and across the Middle East. The ability to enrich nuclear fuel, while essential for civilian power, also presents a pathway to creating nuclear weapons. The agreement reportedly includes limitations on inspections, which may raise skepticism among lawmakers.

Israel, widely believed to possess undeclared nuclear weapons, has historically been wary of Saudi Arabia gaining access to nuclear technology. The deal also comes amidst ongoing tensions with Iran, Saudi Arabia's regional rival, which possesses enriched uranium and maintains its nuclear program despite US pressure. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously stated he would pursue a nuclear weapon if Iran were to develop one.

Uranium enrichment and plutonium reprocessing are the primary methods for producing the core materials needed for nuclear weapons. While most countries with civilian reactors purchase enriched uranium from international vendors under strict supervision, this deal could allow Saudi Arabia to produce it domestically. The US has pursued such an agreement for years, with previous administrations viewing it as part of a broader normalization pact with Israel. These efforts stalled after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, but the Trump administration revived nuclear discussions last year.