US signs landmark nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia
The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a peaceful nuclear cooperation agreement, potentially allowing the kingdom to enrich uranium for civilian energy. The deal aims to deepen economic ties while raising concerns about regional nuclear proliferation.
Why it matters
This agreement marks a significant shift in US-Saudi relations and energy policy, with potential long-term implications for Middle Eastern security and global non-proliferation efforts.
Under the deal, US President Donald Trump has reportedly not required his Saudi counterpart Mohammed bin Salman to give diplomatic recognition to Israel./SCREENGRAB
The US and Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark deal that will reportedly allow the Gulf kingdom to develop a civilian nuclear programme.
The deal is described as a "peaceful nuclear co-operation agreement" that will provide "great access for American companies in the Saudi nuclear energy program", according to the US energy department.
Text from the deal was not made public, but US media have reported that it could allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium in the future - which can be used as fuel for power plants, but also to make nuclear bombs.
Experts say that would mark a first for the US and could run the risk of future nuclear proliferation in an already unstable region.
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