The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark civilian nuclear cooperation agreement—commonly known as a "Section 123 Agreement"—in Washington, D.C. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman finalized the deal, alongside a complementary bilateral safeguards agreement, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
A Foundation for Long-Term Partnership
Together, the two agreements establish the legal framework for a multi-decade, multibillion-dollar collaboration aimed at advancing shared economic and strategic priorities—including nuclear nonproliferation. The Section 123 Agreement grants U.S. companies significant access to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious nuclear energy program, supporting American industry, workers, and supply chains while helping meet the Kingdom’s growing energy needs.
Safety, Security, and Strategic Advantage
The agreements also reinforce U.S. national security and regional stability by upholding the highest international standards for nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation. They further strengthen America’s competitive edge in civil nuclear technology and export leadership.
"These agreements reflect our shared commitment to deepening U.S.-Saudi commercial ties—delivering prosperity at home and security for our allies abroad," said Secretary Wright. "Rest assured, these arrangements adhere to the strongest nuclear safety and nonproliferation standards in the world, built on U.S.-designed technology and the expertise of the world’s top nuclear scientists. Thanks to President Trump, America’s nuclear renaissance is underway—and will deliver lasting benefits for both the American and Saudi people."
Concerns from Regional Experts
However, some Israeli nuclear experts and former officials—representing one of the U.S.’s closest Middle Eastern allies—have voiced concern that the partnership could, over time, bring Saudi Arabia closer to developing nuclear weapons capability.