Trump approves nuclear deal allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium

Landmark Deal Signed

US President Donald Trump has approved a landmark nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia, granting the kingdom the right to enrich uranium for its civilian nuclear programme. The decision marks a significant departure from decades of US non-proliferation policy, which had strictly limited such capabilities in the Middle East.

The deal was announced late Tuesday, with officials describing it as a major win for Riyadh. Saudi Arabia has long sought to develop its own nuclear infrastructure, arguing that it needs energy diversification and reduced dependence on oil.

Strategic Implications

The agreement comes at a time of escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Washington has been working to isolate Tehran diplomatically and economically, and the nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia is widely seen as a move to strengthen regional allies against Iranian influence.

Analysts say the deal could reshape the balance of power in the region. Saudi Arabia, a key US partner, now has the potential to develop a full nuclear fuel cycle, which includes enrichment — a process that can produce both civilian reactor fuel and, if further refined, weapons-grade material.

Non-Proliferation Concerns

Critics, including arms control experts and some US lawmakers, have voiced alarm over the decision. They argue that allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium could trigger a nuclear arms race in the volatile Middle East, with other nations like Turkey and the United Arab Emirates seeking similar concessions.

"This sets a dangerous precedent," said a former US nuclear negotiator, speaking on condition of anonymity. "Once the door is open for enrichment in the region, it becomes nearly impossible to close."

The White House, however, has insisted that the agreement includes strict safeguards and monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Officials claim the deal is designed solely for peaceful energy purposes.

Reactions from the Region

Iran has already condemned the agreement, calling it a threat to regional stability. Tehran, which has its own uranium enrichment programme, accused Washington of double standards. "The US cannot preach non-proliferation while arming its allies with nuclear capability," an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson said.

Israel, which has long opposed any nuclear programme in Saudi Arabia, has not yet issued an official response. However, Israeli officials have previously expressed concerns that a Saudi civilian programme could eventually be militarised.

The Saudi government has welcomed the deal, with a senior prince stating that the kingdom "has the right to peaceful nuclear technology like any other nation."

What happens next remains uncertain. The agreement must still clear several legislative hurdles in the US Congress, where lawmakers are expected to push for tighter restrictions. The coming weeks will determine whether this deal strengthens regional stability or fuels further tensions.