Saudi Nuclear Deal Lacks Strong Safeguards, Critics Say

A new U. S. agreement with Saudi Arabia on nuclear power has sparked worry among lawmakers who want tighter rules. The deal, still in review before President Trump could sign it, would let the U. S. share nuclear technology with Riyadh. Democratic senators had asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio to insist on a United Nations‑backed system that would let the International Atomic Energy Agency conduct surprise inspections. Instead, a State Department letter says the pact only calls for a simpler “bilateral safeguards agreement. ” The senators also wanted a so‑called gold standard that would forbid Saudi Arabia from enriching uranium or reprocessing waste—steps that could help make weapons. That standard was used by the UAE in 2009 before it built its first plant, but the letter makes no mention of it.The State Department claims the draft includes all legal requirements and pledges strong safety, security and non‑proliferation commitments. Yet Senator Edward Markey warned that the deal “sells out national security” by giving Saudi Arabia advanced nuclear tech without the strictest protections. He pointed out that Saudi leaders have said they would pursue weapons if Iran did, and that the U. S. has fought Iran over similar technology. If President Trump signs, Congress would have 90 days to oppose the agreement. If it passes, the U. S. would begin sharing nuclear power technology with Saudi Arabia, a move that experts say could be risky if the kingdom’s long‑term intentions are unclear.