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In a development drawing intense scrutiny from lawmakers and nuclear experts, the Trump administration has reportedly agreed to permit Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium under a draft civilian nuclear deal, CNN has reported. The agreement, negotiated in October 2025 and awaiting the President’s finalization, would seemingly bypass Riyadh’s obligation to adhere to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) stringent enhanced safeguards protocol.
While the details of the agreement have not been publicly disclosed, nuclear specialists have expressed grave concerns that the deal could inadvertently pave the way for Saudi Arabia to develop nuclear weapons. Critics argue that the omission of enhanced safeguards creates a potentially perilous situation, particularly when considering Riyadh’s track record of human rights abuses and its ongoing involvement in the conflict in Yemen.
The draft agreement, which has not yet been officially submitted to the US Congress, must be signed off on by lawmakers prior to its ratification. However, it appears that this mandatory review has been stalled, casting uncertainty over the future of the deal.
US lawmakers have thus far been kept in the dark regarding the details of the agreement. Congressional leaders have expressed frustration at being denied access to the draft deal, which they argue is essential to assessing its potential risks and implications. Their skepticism is reflected in comments from several prominent lawmakers who question the decision to grant Saudi Arabia the privilege of enriching uranium, regardless of its adherence to IAEA standards.
The agreement comes amidst ongoing controversy surrounding Saudi Arabia’s role in the region and its relationship with the United States. Riyadh has long faced criticism for its treatment of civil liberties, as well as its military involvement in neighboring Yemen. Critics argue that a civilian nuclear deal, particularly one that grants uranium-enriching privileges, runs the risk of enabling Riyadh to develop a nuclear arsenal, posing a significant threat to regional and global security.
A US Department of State spokesperson, asked to comment on the draft agreement, declined to provide detailed information on the matter, stating only that the administration would continue to engage with Saudi Arabia in discussions regarding the nuclear deal. However, it remains to be seen whether the President will ultimately sign off on the agreement, paving the way for Riyadh’s nuclear ambitions.