US Nuclear Policy Shift? Trump OKs Saudi Uranium Enrichment, Raising Mideast Nuclear Race Fears

The United States has reportedly greenlit a nuclear cooperation deal with Saudi Arabia, a move that could grant the kingdom uranium enrichment capabilities for the first time. This potential pivot in U.S. nuclear non-proliferation policy has sparked fears of a renewed nuclear arms race in the Middle East.

The agreement, which could be formally announced soon and spans 30 years, reportedly includes exploring the feasibility of enrichment facilities within Saudi Arabia. However, it requires review by the U.S. Congress before becoming effective. While ostensibly for civilian nuclear energy, the dual-use nature of enriched uranium, essential for both power plants and nuclear weapons, makes this a highly sensitive development.

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The U.S. has approved a nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, which could allow the kingdom to obtain uranium enrichment capabilities.

For years, the U.S. has supported allies' nuclear ambitions but typically insisted they forgo domestic enrichment to mitigate proliferation risks. If Saudi Arabia gains this capability, it would signify a significant policy adjustment for the U.S. Concerns are further amplified by reports that the deal may not include the stricter oversight of the Additional Protocol, potentially raising transparency issues.

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If Saudi Arabia ultimately obtains uranium enrichment capabilities, it would represent a major adjustment in U.S. nuclear cooperation policy toward its allies.

This decision arrives as the U.S. and Israel actively counter Iran's nuclear program, which Washington views as a threat. Critics question the U.S. stance, arguing that permitting Saudi Arabia similar capabilities could prompt other regional powers to reassess their own nuclear policies, escalating an arms race. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously stated the kingdom would pursue nuclear weapons if Iran obtained them, a statement now under renewed scrutiny.

In contrast, the United Arab Emirates' nuclear deal with the U.S., which includes a commitment not to enrich uranium domestically, is seen as a benchmark for peaceful nuclear cooperation. The White House and Saudi government have not officially confirmed the agreement's details, and the U.S. Energy Department has not responded to media inquiries. If finalized as planned, the deal could reshape U.S.-Saudi relations and alter the nuclear balance in the Middle East and the global non-proliferation landscape.

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If Iran obtains nuclear weapons in the future, Saudi Arabia will also seek corresponding capabilities.