Trump Approves Historic Civil Nuclear Deal Allowing Saudi Uranium Enrichment

US President Donald Trump has officially approved a landmark 30-year civil nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia, reported the Wall Street Journal citing government sources. The deal, expected to be signed imminently, will provide Saudi Arabia with a civilian nuclear program and permit uranium enrichment on its soil, contingent on joint US-Saudi assessments. Valued at tens of billions of dollars, the agreement aims to give American companies a leading role in developing Saudi Arabia's nuclear infrastructure, sidelining foreign competitors.

A key provision allows US firms to establish uranium enrichment facilities in Saudi Arabia if deemed justified by joint inspections. US officials claim the deal will enhance American influence over Saudi nuclear activities and prevent military misuse of nuclear materials. However, critics warn that enabling uranium enrichment risks accelerating nuclear technology proliferation in the Middle East. Unlike the UAE, Saudi Arabia refused to commit to the "gold standard" of forgoing uranium enrichment.

The agreement will soon be submitted to the US Congress, where opposition is expected but overcoming a presidential veto would require a two-thirds majority. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who negotiated the deal during his April 2025 visit to the region, is set to sign it. Former State Department official Robert Einhorn noted the deal could revive the US nuclear industry and strengthen US-Saudi ties but cautioned that insufficient restrictions might increase regional nuclear risks.

Experts warn Saudi Arabia's nuclear path could influence other Arab states like the UAE, Turkey, and Egypt. The New York Times reported the deal was discussed for years and was previously linked to Saudi recognition of Israel, a condition dropped after the Hamas attack on October 7. The agreement reportedly includes concessions from Trump limiting international inspectors' access to sensitive sites. Earlier reports indicated the deal was delayed due to tensions with Iran and congressional opposition fears. Recent weeks have also seen strains in US-Saudi relations.