Israel Opposes US-Saudi Nuclear Pact Allowing Enrichment

Saudi Arabia's push for nuclear capabilities, framed as a civilian energy initiative, is reshaping the Middle Eastern strategic landscape amid growing tensions with Iran. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced that the U.S. and Saudi Arabia are nearing a memorandum of understanding to enhance energy cooperation, which may include nuclear development. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has voiced strong opposition to any nuclear deal that allows Riyadh to enrich uranium, reiterating Israel's stance from previous years. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has complicated Israeli-Saudi normalization talks, prompting Riyadh to seek benefits from the U.S. independently of Israel. This dynamic signals a potential shift in alliances and strategic priorities in the region, with implications for Israel's security. As Saudi Arabia advances its nuclear ambitions, concerns about a nuclear arms race in the region are mounting.