Senior Correspondent, Dhaka:
The proposed US-Saudi nuclear deal marks one of the most consequential strategic developments in the Middle East in recent years, with implications extending well beyond energy cooperation. While Washington presents the agreement as a framework for supporting Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear ambitions, critics argue it could reshape the region’s security architecture and intensify concerns over nuclear proliferation.
Under the reported 30-year agreement, US companies would help Saudi Arabia develop a civilian nuclear program, including the possibility of enriching uranium on Saudi soil after a joint feasibility study. Although uranium enrichment is a legitimate component of civilian nuclear energy, it is also a sensitive technology because the same process can produce material suitable for nuclear weapons if enriched to higher levels.
The timing of the agreement is particularly significant. It follows heightened tensions over Iran’s nuclear program, which remains a central security concern for both Washington and its regional allies. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s previous statement that Riyadh would seek nuclear weapons if Iran acquired one continues to fuel concerns that the US-Saudi nuclear deal could trigger a regional nuclear competition rather than enhance stability.
The proposed arrangement also differs from the 2009 US-UAE nuclear agreement, under which Abu Dhabi agreed not to enrich uranium domestically. Allowing Saudi Arabia greater flexibility represents a notable policy shift that could encourage other countries in the region to demand similar concessions.
Politically, the deal is expected to face scrutiny in the US Congress, where lawmakers from both parties are likely to question its long-term security implications despite Republican control of both chambers. It may also generate unease in Israel, which has consistently opposed any regional development that could eventually expand nuclear capabilities beyond its traditional security framework.
Ultimately, the agreement reflects Washington’s effort to strengthen strategic ties with Riyadh. However, balancing commercial interests, energy cooperation and non-proliferation commitments will remain the defining challenge as the proposal moves toward congressional review.
