US intel: Saudi Arabia may still seek nuclear weapons, complicating civilian pact
Classified US intelligence reportedly assesses that Saudi Arabia has not ruled out developing nuclear weapons, undermining the Trump administration's proposed civilian nuclear cooperation agreement. The finding is fueling bipartisan congressional opposition to the pact, which would require US approval and safeguards. The development signals potential friction in US-Saudi relations and raises proliferation concerns in the Middle East.
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Saudi Arabia Signals Nuclear Weapons Option Amid US Civilian Deal Review
Classified US intelligence assessments indicate Saudi Arabia has not ruled out developing nuclear weapons, particularly if Iran pursues such capabilities. This assessment is complicating US congressional review of a proposed civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Riyadh, raising significant nonproliferation concerns. The precise conditions under which Saudi Arabia would initiate a weapons program remain unclear.