Trump Conditions Saudi Civil Nuclear Deal on Joining Abraham Accords

On June 26, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the civil nuclear cooperation agreement signed between the U.S. Department of Energy and Saudi Arabia will only be approved if Saudi Arabia joins the Abraham Accords. The agreement, which concerns peaceful nuclear uses similar to existing civilian programs in Iran and the UAE, excludes any uranium enrichment. Trump emphasized that the U.S. supports civilian nuclear facilities but insists on non-proliferation commitments.

The previous day, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman signed the so-called 123 Agreement alongside a bilateral defense pact. These agreements establish a legal framework for a multi-decade partnership valued in the billions of dollars, aimed at advancing economic and strategic priorities, including nuclear non-proliferation.

Wright highlighted that the agreements reflect a shared commitment to strengthening U.S.-Saudi trade relations, promoting prosperity, and ensuring security for the alliance. He assured that the accords meet the highest standards of nuclear safety and non-proliferation, leveraging top U.S. nuclear technology and expertise. Wright credited President Trump for driving a U.S. nuclear renaissance that will benefit both American and Saudi peoples in the long term.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also announced the possibility of expanding the Abraham Accords, underscoring the accords' growing regional significance.