Could Saudi Arabia enrich uranium?
A nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia outlines a potential process that could eventually allow for uranium enrichment up to 20%. While the deal does not automatically authorize such activities, it establishes a framework for assessing the feasibility of a future enrichment facility. Officials from both nations will spend the next two years evaluating economic viability and nuclear proliferation risks before any construction proceeds.
What are the terms of the agreement?
The US Department of Energy signed the agreement on July 22 to support Saudi Arabia's peaceful nuclear energy program. If deemed necessary, the plan allows for the construction of facilities capable of initial enrichment to 5%, with the potential to increase levels to 20% later. Notably, the agreement does not require Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel or join the Abraham Accords.
