US-Saudi Nuclear Deal Raises Proliferation Concerns

The United States and Saudi Arabia are preparing to sign a preliminary agreement to collaborate on developing Saudi Arabia's civil nuclear industry, as confirmed by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright during his visit to Riyadh. This agreement is part of a broader effort to solidify energy cooperation between the two nations, with details to be disclosed later this year. A critical component of this cooperation is the potential 123 agreement, which is necessary for US involvement and outlines non-proliferation criteria to prevent the misuse of nuclear technology. However, Saudi Arabia has not yet agreed to all requirements under this agreement, including restrictions on uranium enrichment, which could lead to weaponization. The discussions also hint at broader geopolitical implications, including potential ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel, as relationships in the region are often interconnected. This move has sparked concern among arms control advocates about the possibility of nuclear proliferation in the Middle East.