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John Kennedy Expresses Skepticism Over the Administration's Civil Nuclear Deal with Saudi Arabia

Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana has expressed public opposition to the administration's new civil nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia. While the deal, signed by Energy Secretary Chris Wright, aims to streamline Saudi Arabia's civilian nuclear program, Kennedy argued that the timing is poor given the ongoing war with Iran. He noted that the world is currently on a "hair trigger" and expressed concern that providing nuclear technology to a new ally while simultaneously trying to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons creates a perception of potential proliferation. The administration announced the deal is contingent on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords and recognizing Israel. However, Kennedy believes this condition may be difficult to achieve, as Saudi Arabia has long maintained that it will only normalize ties with Israel if a clear pathway toward a sovereign Palestinian state is established. This opposition from a key Republican senator signals a growing divide within the GOP regarding the administration's Middle East strategy. The deal must now be transmitted to Congress for a 90-day review period.

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