The US-Saudi nuclear deal has triggered debate in Israel after Washington and Riyadh signed a civil nuclear cooperation agreement that would allow Saudi Arabia to develop nuclear reactors using American technology and enrich uranium. The agreement, announced on Wednesday, still requires approval from the US Congress before it can take effect.
The agreement is designed to support Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear energy programme while expanding long-term cooperation between the two countries. According to the US Energy Department, the deal provides the legal framework for a multi-billion-dollar partnership focused on peaceful nuclear energy, commercial ties and non-proliferation standards.
Several Israeli opposition leaders expressed concern over the agreement’s potential security implications. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said the proposed arrangement represented a strategic failure that could endanger Israel’s long-term security. He argued that uranium enrichment on Saudi soil could encourage a wider regional nuclear competition.
Former Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman also criticised the agreement, claiming that a civilian nuclear programme could eventually increase the risk of an arms race across the Middle East. He urged Israel to oppose the deal and lobby members of the US Congress before the agreement receives final approval.
Former defence chief Benny Gantz said civilian nuclear cooperation with Saudi Arabia should have been linked to broader regional security arrangements, including efforts to strengthen ties between moderate states. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defence and foreign ministers had not publicly commented on the agreement at the time of reporting.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman signed the agreement, commonly known as a “123 Agreement,” along with a bilateral safeguards arrangement. US officials said the partnership would promote nuclear safety, strengthen non-proliferation efforts and create opportunities for American companies involved in Saudi Arabia’s nuclear energy sector.
The US-Saudi nuclear deal is expected to undergo Congressional review in the coming weeks. Supporters describe it as an important step for energy cooperation and regional stability, while critics argue it could reshape the strategic balance in the Middle East and raise new security concerns.
