The Trump administration is preparing to submit a nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia to Congress, a move that could open the door for expanded U.S.-Saudi cooperation on civilian nuclear energy. However, the agreement has raised concerns among lawmakers and arms control experts because it reportedly does not include several safeguards traditionally used to prevent nuclear technology from being diverted toward weapons development.
The agreement, known as a Section 123 Agreement under the U.S. Atomic Energy Act, would allow American companies and the U.S. government to participate in Saudi Arabia’s planned civilian nuclear program. The pact is expected to be signed by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman before being sent to Congress for review.
According to sources familiar with the agreement, the deal does not include the strict restrictions known as the “Gold Standard,” which would prevent Saudi Arabia from enriching uranium or reprocessing spent nuclear fuel. Both activities can provide potential pathways toward developing nuclear weapons. The agreement also reportedly lacks the Additional Protocol, which gives the International Atomic Energy Agency greater authority to inspect nuclear facilities and investigate undeclared activities.
Supporters of the agreement argue that it would strengthen U.S.-Saudi energy cooperation and help develop a civilian nuclear industry in the kingdom. U.S. officials have said the deal follows existing nonproliferation requirements and does not require Washington to transfer sensitive nuclear technology or allow Saudi Arabia to develop nuclear fuel capabilities.
The issue remains controversial because Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously stated that the kingdom would pursue nuclear weapons if Iran developed them. Saudi Arabia has also expressed interest in maintaining the ability to enrich uranium, raising concerns among critics who fear a potential nuclear arms race in the Middle East.
The agreement comes as the United States attempts to balance strategic ties with Saudi Arabia against long standing efforts to limit the spread of nuclear weapons technology. Previous U.S. agreements, including the 2009 deal with the United Arab Emirates, included stronger restrictions on enrichment and fuel reprocessing.
Once submitted, Congress will have around 90 days of review sessions to examine the agreement. Lawmakers can attempt to block the deal, but stopping it would require a joint resolution of disapproval and enough support to overcome a possible presidential veto.
The proposed Saudi nuclear agreement highlights the ongoing challenge of expanding peaceful nuclear cooperation while maintaining strict global security standards. While the deal could strengthen U.S.-Saudi relations and support energy development, its lack of certain safeguards is expected to fuel debate in Washington over whether economic and strategic benefits outweigh potential proliferation risks.
