In brief
Former President Donald Trump declared that the landmark civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia will only materialise if Riyadh joins the Abraham Accords, normalising ties with Israel. He emphasised that the agreement is strictly for peaceful use and will not involve enrichment. The move has ignited debate over potential proliferation risks and Saudi Arabia’s political calculus, lashing off a broader shift in Arab‑Israel relations. Critics warn that regional dynamics, especially Iran’s influence, could be reshaped by this tie, while supporters argue it could bring economic benefits and regional stability.
The United States and Saudi Arabia have announced a civilian nuclear partnership set to provide the kingdom with enrichment‑free fuel and advanced technology.
Former President Donald Trump said on Truth Social that the agreement will only go ahead if Saudi Arabia joins the Abraham Accords – a diplomatic framework that normalises relations between Israel and several Arab states.
"The Civil Nuclear Deal … will be approved, but is totally subject to Saudi Arabia joining the very respected and successful Abraham Accords," Trump wrote, adding the deal is "not for enrichment of material" and is limited to peaceful uses.
The comments come amid a debate about nuclear proliferation risks in a volatile region, with critics suggesting that the agreement could indirectly strengthen Iran’s influence if Israel’s security interests are foregrounded.
The Abraham Accords, brokered by Trump in 2020, saw the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain recognize Israel; subsequent normalisation has included Sudan and Morocco.
Saudi Arabia’s decision to recognise Israel remains a political gamble, weighing potential economic benefits against domestic opposition and the broader Arab consensus on Palestinian rights.
On the other side of the fence, Israel welcomes any Saudi partnership that could solidify its strategic position, while Iran’s leadership has repeatedly warned against U.S. dominance in the nuclear arena.
At the same time, global non‑proliferation regimes – such as the International Atomic Energy Agency – keep a watchful eye on any new civilian nuclear agreements to ensure compliance with the Nuclear Non‑Proliferation Treaty.
The outcome of this diplomatic tightrope will influence not just Saudi‑Israeli ties but also the future of U.S. influence in the Middle East.
