US removes safeguards from proposed Saudi nuclear deal, raising proliferation concerns

Thursday 19 February 2026 - 23:50

By: Sahili Aya

US removes safeguards from proposed Saudi nuclear deal, raising proliferation concerns

The United States is moving forward with a proposed civil nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia that removes key non-proliferation safeguards, according to a document sent to Congress and reviewed by Reuters. The move allows Saudi Arabia greater control over uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing, steps that could potentially lead to nuclear weapons development.

President Donald Trump has emphasized that the deal places U.S. industry at the center of Saudi Arabia’s nuclear program to ensure safety, but critics warn that the absence of strict guardrails could heighten global proliferation risks. Arms control advocates, along with some Democrats and Republicans, argue that the agreement should include the Additional Protocol, which grants the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) authority for surprise inspections at undeclared sites.

This development coincides with concerns over a new nuclear arms race, as the latest U.S.-Russia strategic arms limitation treaty recently expired, and China continues to expand its nuclear capabilities. Non-proliferation experts have expressed worries that bypassing safeguards may set a precedent for other countries seeking nuclear capabilities without stringent oversight.

The Trump administration is expected to submit the agreement, known as the 123 Agreement, to Congress this month for review, continuing the debate over balancing civil nuclear cooperation with global security commitments.