Trump Approves U.S.-Saudi Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement

U.S. President Donald Trump has approved a major civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, according to reports published on July 22, 2026. The 30-year agreement, commonly known as a “123 Agreement,” would create the legal framework needed for American companies to provide Saudi Arabia with nuclear technology, equipment and expertise. The Saudi program is intended for peaceful purposes, including electricity generation and other civilian uses. The agreement could also open the door for Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium inside the kingdom under specific conditions. However, the final details have not yet been formally announced. The possibility of domestic uranium enrichment has raised concerns among nuclear nonproliferation experts and some members of the U.S. Congress. Enriched uranium can be used as fuel for civilian nuclear reactors, but higher enrichment levels may also be used in nuclear weapons. Critics have also questioned reports that the agreement does not include some of the strictest safeguards, such as a complete ban on uranium enrichment and the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Additional Protocol for enhanced inspections. Supporters of the agreement argue that cooperation with Washington would give the United States greater oversight of Saudi Arabia’s nuclear program. They also believe the deal would create major opportunities for American nuclear energy companies and reduce Saudi dependence on competing suppliers. The agreement has not yet entered into force. It must first be formally submitted to the U.S. Congress, where lawmakers will have a 90-day period to review it and potentially attempt to block it.