The administration announced a new nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia to develop a civilian nuclear energy program using U.S. technology.
The administration announced a new nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia to develop a civilian nuclear energy program using U.S. technology and expertise. The Department of Energy released details on Wednesday, noting that the deal includes safeguards to ensure nuclear materials are not diverted for weapons development. Republicans emphasized the importance of maintaining strategic partnerships in the Middle East. Representative Tim Burchett stated that the U.S. must develop allies and that the agreement is viable as long as the U.S. can verify proper usage. Representative Mark Alford added that Saudi Arabia is a vital regional partner whose current reforms offer hope for bringing lasting peace to the region. Democrats expressed concerns that the deal could accelerate a regional nuclear arms race. Representative Jamie Raskin called the proposal "outrageous," while Representative Gregory Meeks warned that allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium without strict protocols could prompt neighboring countries to seek their own nuclear weapons.