President Trump has formally approved a 30-year nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, a deal designed to grant American companies a central role in developing the kingdom’s civilian nuclear infrastructure, according to administration officials. The partnership, valued at tens of billions of dollars, establishes a framework for cooperation on nuclear energy but has drawn scrutiny for lacking the stringent non-proliferation safeguards historically required by the United States.
A Departure from Traditional Non-Proliferation Standards
The agreement, structured under Section 123 of the U.S. Atomic Energy Act, facilitates the transfer of civil nuclear technology. However, reports indicate the pact omits the “Gold Standard”—a set of restrictions that previously barred nations from enriching uranium or reprocessing spent nuclear fuel. These activities are viewed by experts as potential pathways to nuclear weapons development.
Furthermore, the deal reportedly does not mandate that Saudi Arabia adopt the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Additional Protocol.
This protocol is widely considered the gold standard for non-proliferation, as it provides the IAEA with authority to conduct intrusive, snap inspections at undeclared locations. While Riyadh would remain subject to basic NPT obligations and IAEA safeguards, the exclusion of the Additional Protocol marks a significant shift in U.S. policy.
Uranium Enrichment and Regional Security
A central point of debate involves the potential for uranium enrichment on Saudi soil. While the agreement does not obligate the United States to transfer enrichment technology, it provides a legal pathway for cooperation on the nuclear fuel cycle. The framework allows for the possibility of constructing a U.S.-backed enrichment facility if joint feasibility studies determine it is justified.
The approval comes amid heightened regional tensions, including an ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously stated that if Iran were to develop a nuclear bomb, the kingdom would follow suit. Arms control advocates and some U.S. lawmakers have expressed concern that providing Saudi Arabia with enrichment capabilities lowers the technical barrier for a potential weapons program.
Comparison to the UAE Model
The U.S. approach to Saudi Arabia contrasts sharply with the 2009 agreement signed with the United Arab Emirates. The UAE voluntarily accepted the Gold Standard, renouncing domestic enrichment and reprocessing in exchange for U.S. nuclear cooperation. Experts often cite the UAE model as the benchmark for minimizing proliferation risks while supporting civilian energy needs.
Administration officials have reportedly argued that the Saudi framework is distinct from the situation in Iran, asserting that the Saudi program will operate under U.S.-supported oversight. In contrast, the United States has maintained intense pressure on Iran, citing Tehran’s history of enrichment beyond civilian requirements and concerns over undeclared nuclear activities.
Legislative Path and Next Steps
The Trump administration plans to submit the 123 Agreement to Congress, where it will undergo a review period of approximately 90 days of continuous congressional sessions.
The agreement is set to be signed by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi energy minister Abdulaziz bin Salman. While the administration has signaled the submission will occur soon, the exact timeline remains subject to development.
Sources: WSJ, Middleeasteye.
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