The United States and Saudi Arabia are expected to sign a civil nuclear agreement that would enable Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear program, according to multiple reports. The proposed deal includes U.S. authorization for the transfer of nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia and would allow Saudi Arabia to begin uranium enrichment for civilian use. Several outlets report that the agreement could involve U.S. companies building or operating parts of Saudi Arabia’s nuclear fuel cycle infrastructure, including uranium enrichment facilities. CBS News and others describe a commercial component in which U.S. firms would be involved in running nuclear power for Saudi Arabia, with the possibility that Saudi Arabia would enrich its own fuel for nuclear reactors.
While the reports frame the agreement as supporting a civilian nuclear program—consistent with Saudi Arabia’s long-stated position on having a civilian nuclear capability—some experts and regional concerns are also noted. France 24 reports that Israel and some policy specialists warn that enrichment capabilities could increase nuclear proliferation risks in the region. The outlets also say the announcement and signing are expected to occur this week or on Wednesday, depending on timing described by each source.
