Trump to seek Congress approval for Saudi nuclear pact without safeguards
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President Donald Trump will seek congressional approval for a civilian nuclear energy agreement with Saudi Arabia that does not include standard nonproliferation safeguards, according to sources. The pact would allow Riyadh to enrich uranium and reprocess spent fuel, raising concerns among lawmakers about a potential arms race in the Middle East.
The Proposed Deal
The agreement, known as a 123 agreement, would permit Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium and reprocess spent fuel — activities that could be used to produce weapons-grade material. The Trump administration has argued that the pact is necessary to counter Iran's nuclear program and to deepen ties with a key ally. Critics, including some Republican and Democratic lawmakers, say the lack of safeguards sets a dangerous precedent.
Congressional Hurdles
The deal requires approval from both chambers of Congress, where opposition is growing. Senator Bob Menendez, chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, has vowed to block any agreement that does not include strict nonproliferation measures. The administration plans to submit the pact for review in the coming weeks, sources said.
What's Next
The White House is expected to formally submit the agreement to Congress within 30 days. It remains unclear whether the administration can secure enough votes to overcome a potential resolution of disapproval.
2 sources
Trump to seek Congress approval for Saudi nuclear pact without safeguards