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Israel fears US deal would allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium

Israel fears the US-Saudi civilian nuclear deal could pave the way for uranium enrichment not only by the Saudis but also by other countries in the region.

US President Donald Trump (R) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shake hands as they arrive to speak to journalists during a joint press conference at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, on Dec. 29, 2025.
US President Donald Trump (R) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shake hands as they arrive to speak to journalists during a joint press conference at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, on Dec. 29, 2025. — Jim Watson / AFP via Getty Images

The US-Saudi civilian nuclear agreement could allow Riyadh to enrich uranium on its own soil, Israeli geopolitical experts told Al-Monitor. 

Israel, analysts say, is not only concerned that Saudi Arabia would be permitted to enrich its own uranium. It also fears that allowing the kingdom to enrich uranium would encourage other countries in the region to make similar demands.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the administration is set to announce on Wednesday a 30-year agreement between Washington and Riyadh that would provide Saudi Arabia with a civilian nuclear program and potentially open the door to uranium enrichment on its territory. 

Once signed, Congress has a 90-day review period during which lawmakers can examine the agreement and attempt to block it by passing a joint resolution of disapproval.

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