Towards Saudi Nuclear Weapons? Turmoil Following U.S. Intelligence Report

Washington: According to a report by The Washington Post, American intelligence agencies estimate that Saudi Arabia has not completely ruled out the possibility of developing nuclear weapons. The report, citing U.S. officials, revealed that this issue was mentioned in classified documents submitted to the American Congress. As a result, concerns in Washington regarding the U.S.-Saudi civilian nuclear cooperation agreement have intensified.

20 Percent Uranium Enrichment… This is the Real Concern!

Under the U.S.-Saudi nuclear agreement, the initial limit for uranium enrichment in Saudi Arabia will be set at 5 percent. However, nuclear control experts indicate that there is a possibility to increase this level to 20 percent after further studies and written agreement between the two countries. The Arms Control Association noted that a significant portion of the enrichment process necessary to reach weapons-grade from uranium enriched to 20 percent may already be completed.

90-Day Review in Congress

The U.S.-Saudi civilian nuclear cooperation agreement was sent to the American Congress in August. According to the Atomic Energy Act, Congress has a 90-day review period. If no action is taken to block the agreement during this time, it is likely to come into effect. Some American lawmakers have already called for further clarity on the nuclear proliferation control aspects of the agreement.

: ‘We Will Not Support a Nuclear Weapons Program’

The U.S. government has clarified that it will not support a nuclear weapons program in Saudi Arabia. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this agreement pertains to civilian nuclear power cooperation, nuclear safety, security standards, and non-proliferation measures.

What is Saudi Arabia's Argument?

The Saudi government asserts that its nuclear program is entirely for peaceful purposes. Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman has previously stated that they will conduct the nuclear program responsibly and transparently.

However, the potential for the technological capabilities and uranium enrichment facilities required for nuclear power to be diverted for military purposes has become a major discussion point in the American Congress. In the context of existing security tensions in the Middle East, the key question now is what impact this agreement will have on the international non-proliferation regime.