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Saudis and US strike deal for kingdom to enrich uranium, reports say
The Guardian • • world
Key Points:
- Former President Donald Trump has approved a 30-year agreement with Saudi Arabia that could grant the kingdom uranium enrichment capabilities for its civilian nuclear program, potentially involving US firms in its development.
- The deal, expected to be announced soon, may face opposition in Congress due to concerns about nuclear proliferation and the risk of Saudi Arabia developing nuclear weapons.
- The agreement reportedly excludes the International Atomic Energy Agency’s additional protocol, limiting enhanced monitoring and inspections, raising further non-proliferation concerns.
- This move occurs amid heightened tensions with Iran, whose nuclear enrichment activities have been a focal point of US and Israeli security concerns in the region.
- Saudi Arabia’s potential access to uranium enrichment, combined with its defense pact with nuclear-armed Pakistan, has alarmed experts who fear it could accelerate a regional nuclear arms race.
