Archive · 23 Jul 2026
US and Saudi Arabia reach nuclear power deal
The United States and Saudi Arabia have reached a deal that allows Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium and build nuclear reactors using U.S. technology.
This deal has been in the works for years and is seen as a way to strengthen relations between the two countries.
However, there are concerns that this deal could lead to nuclear weapons development in Saudi Arabia and start an arms race in the Middle East.
The deal will now go to Congress for review, and unless Congress raises objections within 90 session days, the deal will go into force.
The deal is expected to benefit companies like Westinghouse, Cameco, and Brookfield Asset Management.
The U.S. and Saudi Arabia reached a civil nuclear power deal allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium and build nuclear reactors using U.S. technology.
The deal does not require Saudi Arabia to sign the Additional Protocol for snap inspections by the IAEA.
Saudi Arabia has switched to regular safeguards with monitoring of declared nuclear facilities.
The deal will go to Congress for review, with a 90-session day period for objections.
The deal is expected to benefit companies like Westinghouse, Cameco, and Brookfield Asset Management.
- Who
- United States and Saudi Arabia
- What
- A civil nuclear power deal allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium and build nuclear reactors using U.S. technology
- When
- July 22
- Where
- United States and Saudi Arabia
- Why
- To strengthen U.S.-Saudi relations and allow Saudi Arabia to expand its nuclear capabilities
Proponents of the Deal
Opponents of the Deal
Nonproliferation Concerns
Proponents of the Deal
The deal includes safeguards that comply with U.S. Atomic Energy Act, ensuring nonproliferation standards.
Opponents of the Deal
The deal allows Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium and reprocess nuclear waste, which could lead to nuclear weapons development.
Regional Stability
Proponents of the Deal
The deal benefits both countries and strengthens U.S.-Saudi relations.
Opponents of the Deal
The deal could start an arms race in the Middle East and make the region less safe.
- Parties Involved
- United States and Saudi Arabia
- Agreement Type
- 123 Agreement and bilateral safeguards agreement
- Key Signatories
- U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and Saudi Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman
- Congressional Review Period
- 90 session days
- Potential Veto Override
- Two-thirds majority required
- Deal Duration
- Approximately 30 years
- Beneficiary Companies
- Westinghouse, Cameco, Brookfield Asset Management