U.S. and Saudi Arabia Sign Historic Civil Nuclear Agreement
The United States and Saudi Arabia signed the historic 123 Agreement for civil nuclear cooperation, still pending U.S. Congressional approval.
A historic pact between Washington and Riyadh
The United States and Saudi Arabia signed on July 22, 2026, a civil nuclear cooperation agreement known as the “123 Agreement,” signed by U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman. The signing also included an additional bilateral safeguards agreement to monitor nuclear material usage.
”Peaceful purposes” and preferential access for U.S. companies
According to the official statement, Saudi Arabia’s nuclear program maintains “peaceful purposes” and a commitment to non-proliferation. The agreement grants U.S. companies preferential access to the kingdom’s emerging nuclear energy sector, as Riyadh seeks to diversify its energy matrix beyond oil.
Opening the door to uranium enrichment
Media outlets such as The New York Times noted that the pact could enable Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium on its own territory — a step beyond conventional nuclear agreements Washington has signed with other regional partners like the United Arab Emirates, whose agreement explicitly prohibits uranium enrichment and fuel reprocessing.
The agreement awaits congressional approval
The pact still requires approval by the U.S. Congress to enter into force. Several Democratic lawmakers have called for its rejection due to concerns over the implications of uranium enrichment in the region. However, Republicans hold a majority in both chambers, paving the way for its eventual ratification.
Context of regional tension
The signing occurs amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia has been targeted by attacks attributed to Iran and faces a maritime blockade announced by Houthi rebels in Yemen against Saudi ships in the Red Sea, adding a strategic dimension to the nuclear cooperation between the two countries.
Sources: El Informador (Mexico).