The Trump administration is expected to announce a landmark nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia, according to US media reports. The deal would allow the kingdom to develop a civilian nuclear program, including the ability to enrich its own uranium for nuclear reactors. It is set to be signed this week by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman.
Supporters say the agreement will bring tens of billions of dollars in profits to American companies involved in building Saudi Arabia's nuclear infrastructure. The White House argues that US involvement will ensure the program remains peaceful and is not used for weapons.
However, critics, including some US lawmakers, fear the deal could fuel a nuclear arms race in the Middle East, particularly with Iran. They worry that allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium could eventually lead to the kingdom developing nuclear weapons, despite assurances.
The deal is a 30-year civil nuclear pact and will be sent to Congress for formal review. It fulfills a long-standing Saudi ambition to have nuclear power, but it has also drawn concern from Israel and others in the region.
Both The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump has approved the agreement. The announcement is expected later this week.