A proposed nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia could allow the kingdom to pursue some level of uranium enrichment within its territory, according to congressional documents and assessments by an arms control group, raising fresh proliferation concerns.
The development comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme. Nonproliferation experts warn that permitting uranium enrichment capability inside Saudi Arabia could potentially open a pathway toward a future weapons programme, particularly given earlier remarks by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that the kingdom would seek similar capabilities if Iran were to acquire a nuclear bomb.
The draft framework, as outlined in congressional documents, suggests the US administration aims to conclude multiple nuclear cooperation agreements globally, including one with Saudi Arabia that could be valued in billions of dollars. The agreement would reportedly involve safeguards with the International Atomic Energy Agency to monitor sensitive areas such as enrichment, fuel fabrication and reprocessing.
Arms control experts caution that even limited enrichment rights could set a precedent and complicate global nonproliferation norms. While enrichment alone does not equate to weaponisation, it represents a critical technological step that could shorten the timeline for developing nuclear weapons if combined with other capabilities.
Saudi Arabia has previously expressed interest in developing civilian nuclear energy to diversify its energy mix. However, critics argue that unlike the United Arab Emirates, which signed a so-called “123 agreement” with the US renouncing enrichment, Riyadh appears unwilling to forgo that option.
The proposal also unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing diplomatic and military pressure on Iran regarding its nuclear activities, including concerns over Tehran’s uranium enrichment levels. Observers say any move to permit enrichment in Saudi Arabia could further complicate the regional security landscape.
No immediate official response was issued by Saudi authorities regarding the latest reports. [KNT]
