The U.S. is gearing up to announce a new agreement with Saudi Arabia, granting Riyadh access to a civilian nuclear program, according to reports. This development comes amidst ongoing tensions between the Gulf nation and Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Sources told the New York Times that the Trump administration plans to sign and reveal the deal this Wednesday. Officials say it will bring billions of dollars into the U.S. nuclear sector.
In the coming days, the administration intends to submit a pact with Saudi Arabia to Congress. However, this agreement lacks certain safeguards that the U.S. insists would prevent the materials from being used in nuclear weapons programs. The deal involves a 30-year plan, under which American firms could build a uranium enrichment facility in Saudi Arabia if a joint study finds it justified.
Many U.S. lawmakers from both parties and Israeli officials oppose the project, fearing it could be converted to develop nuclear weapons down the line. Although the deal is scheduled for submission, congressional approval isn’t mandatory for it to proceed, according to AFP.
Meanwhile, tensions escalated this week as Houthis threatened to broaden the conflict by blocking Saudi ports. Last week marked the first exchange of fire between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis in years, threatening a ceasefire expected in 2022. However, since Israel and the U.S. launched strikes against Iran in late February, the Houthis have largely stayed on the sidelines.