Report: US intelligence assesses that Saudi Arabia is considering developing nuclear weapons

US intelligence assesses that Saudi Arabia is not ruling out the development of nuclear weapons, according to a Washington Post report following the signing of a civilian nuclear agreement between the two countries. The assessment was presented in classified documents submitted to Congress. The agreement, signed in July, includes a civilian nuclear deal and a side security agreement, granting American companies access to the Saudi nuclear energy market. The agreement is expected to pass congressional approval without significant opposition.

US intelligence assesses that Saudi Arabia is not ruling out the development of nuclear weapons, as reported by the Washington Post following the signing of a civilian nuclear agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia. The assessment was presented in classified documents submitted to Congress. The agreement, signed in July by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and his Saudi counterpart Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, includes two documents: a civilian nuclear agreement (123 Agreement) and a side agreement concerning security. The agreement grants American companies access to the Saudi nuclear energy market, and according to the Energy Department, it will enhance regional security while maintaining high standards of safety and non-proliferation. The agreement is expected to pass congressional approval without significant opposition. Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley criticized the agreement, warning of a regional nuclear arms race. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously expressed an intention to obtain nuclear weapons if Iran does.