U.S. announces civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia

Published Jul 24, 08:11 AM UTC

The United States announced a landmark civilian nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia on July 23, 2026, establishing a legal foundation for a multi-billion-dollar partnership. The deal, signed by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, includes nonproliferation safeguards. A provision may allow U.S. companies to build a uranium enrichment facility in Saudi Arabia, though this was not confirmed by the Energy Department. The agreement faces opposition from some U.S. lawmakers and Israeli officials over proliferation concerns. The deal comes amid the U.S.-Iran war and regional instability, with Houthi rebels threatening to blockade Saudi ports. The U.S. insists the agreement will not lead to nuclear proliferation.