In brief
President Donald Trump has stated that the United States’ newly announced civil nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia will only be approved if Riyadh recognises Israel. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed that this condition has been repeatedly emphasised. The deal, still under discussion, raises fears of potential nuclear proliferation in an already volatile region. Israel welcomed the statement, while experts warn that a civilian nuclear programme could be a stepping stone to a military one. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously denied plans to develop nuclear weapons, adding complexity to the diplomatic equation.
President Donald Trump has announced that the United States‑Saudi civil nuclear partnership will only proceed if Riyadh formally recognises Israel as a sovereign state.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that this requirement has been repeatedly discussed by Trump with Saudi officials. “He has said if they don’t join the Abraham Accords, the deal is off,” she said.
The nuclear agreement, still pending congressional review, is described by the U.S. Department of Energy as a “peaceful nuclear co‑operation agreement” that includes a bilateral safeguards provision. Experts warn that the deal could open the door to Saudi uranium enrichment, a step that could later facilitate a weapons programme.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) acknowledged the US‑Saudi talks and said it would work with both governments to implement verification measures.
Israel welcomed Trump’s remark, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office touting it as a historic leap forward for peace in the Middle East. Israeli Economy Minister Nir Barkat noted that Israel could manage the risks of a Saudi civilian nuclear programme, while former defence minister Avigdor Lieberman cautioned that “every military nuclear programme begins with a civilian one.”
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously denied that Riyadh plans to develop nuclear weapons, though he warned that it would follow suit if Iran were to acquire a bomb.
The nuclear issue sits at the centre of the long‑running U.S.–Israeli–Iranian diplomatic standoff. As the region moves toward a possible peaceful co‑operation, the broader implications for proliferation remain hotly debated.
