US, Saudi Arabia Near Deal for Civilian Nuclear Program Development

The United States is reportedly on the verge of signing an agreement with Saudi Arabia that would permit the kingdom to develop its own civilian nuclear program. Sources suggest the Trump administration is preparing to announce the deal, which could allow American companies to oversee nuclear energy operations within Saudi Arabia.

However, the potential accord has raised alarms among nuclear experts and former officials from Israel, a key U.S. ally in the Middle East. They caution that this agreement could inadvertently provide Saudi Arabia with a pathway to developing nuclear weapons. Concerns are particularly high that if Saudi Arabia begins enriching its own uranium, it might embolden hardliners in Iran to pursue a clandestine nuclear weapons program.

Discussions between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia regarding nuclear cooperation have been stalled for years. This potential agreement comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, with the U.S. and Israel engaged in a conflict aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear capabilities, while Iran maintains its program is peaceful.