The United States and Saudi Arabia have officially formalized a civil nuclear cooperation pact, often referred to as a "123 Agreement," following years of negotiations across multiple U.S. administrations. Signed by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, the deal grants the kingdom access to American nuclear technology. While the agreement adheres to the stringent nonproliferation standards outlined in the U.S. Atomic Energy Act, it notably lacks the "Additional Protocol" required by previous proposals, which would have permitted the International Atomic Energy Agency to conduct intrusive, unannounced inspections.

The agreement allows for uranium enrichment and the reprocessing of nuclear waste, processes that have raised global concerns due to their dual-use potential for weapons development. However, Saudi officials have consistently maintained that their nuclear ambitions are strictly for peaceful energy production, though Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has suggested the kingdom would reconsider its stance if regional rival Iran were to develop its own nuclear arsenal. With the deal now headed to Congress for a 90-day review period, it faces a high legislative threshold; lawmakers would need a two-thirds majority to block the pact and override a potential presidential veto, a challenge given Saudi Arabia’s warning that it could otherwise turn to China or Russia for nuclear partnerships.