Trump Links Saudi Nuclear Deal to Abraham Accords Participation

US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that the civilian nuclear agreement signed with Saudi Arabia is contingent on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords, despite this condition not being included in the deal signed the previous day. Trump emphasized that Saudi Arabia will not be permitted to enrich uranium under the agreement. In a social media post, he stated that the US supports civilian nuclear programs without enrichment and that the deal, signed by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, only covers peaceful uses similar to those in Iran, the UAE, and other countries.

The agreement consists of two documents: the civilian nuclear agreement (known as the 123 Agreement) and a security side agreement. The US Department of Energy highlighted that the deal grants American companies access to Saudi Arabia’s nuclear energy market, supporting the US industry. It also aims to enhance regional security and uphold high standards of nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation.

The agreement will now be submitted to the US Congress for approval, where it is not expected to face opposition. Saudi sources expressed satisfaction with the deal, stressing it is not directed against any country in the region, including Israel, but serves Saudi Arabia’s internal interests. A Saudi civilian source told Kan News that the agreement could save the kingdom 1.5 million barrels of oil daily by replacing oil use in civilian sectors such as electricity and healthcare. Meanwhile, in Yemen, there is concern that the deal might enable the Houthi rebels to strengthen.