Trump Approves 30-Year Civil Nuclear Agreement with Saudi Arabia, US Official Says
- Jul 22
- 1 min read
WASHINGTON, July 22, Saudi Arabia Breaking News — US President Donald Trump has approved a civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia that could allow the Kingdom to enrich fuel for civilian nuclear reactors, according to a US official.
The agreement would remain in force for 30 years and could be announced as early as Wednesday, the official said.
Under the proposed framework, American companies would provide technology and technical expertise to support the development of Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear energy programme.
The Trump administration intends to submit the agreement to Congress following its announcement.
The agreement reportedly includes provisions governing inspections of the Saudi nuclear programme. The US official said those provisions would place limits on the inspections that could be conducted, a measure likely to face scrutiny from lawmakers.
Saudi access to uranium-enrichment technology could also draw regional attention because enrichment can produce fuel for civilian reactors but, at higher levels, may provide material used in nuclear weapons.
Israel, which is widely believed to possess an undeclared nuclear arsenal, has long expressed concern over Saudi Arabia obtaining sensitive nuclear technology.
Iran maintains a stockpile of enriched uranium and has pledged to retain its nuclear programme, which Tehran says is intended for civilian purposes.
