- Saudi Arabia announced a historic deal with the U.S. to develop a civilian nuclear program, eight years after stating it would pursue nuclear weapons if Iran developed them.
- The agreement allows American companies to develop nuclear power plants in Saudi Arabia, potentially including a uranium-enrichment facility, following two decades of negotiations.
- The deal's future is uncertain as Trump declared it is "totally subject to Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords" by recognizing Israel, a condition not initially mandated in the reported text.
- Experts warn the agreement sets a "dangerous precedent" that could trigger a nuclear arms race in the volatile Middle East, as Gulf states seek to boost their defense capabilities amid perceived unreliable US security guarantees.
- A primary concern is that the US may be weakening longstanding nuclear non-proliferation principles by relaxing conditions for civilian nuclear cooperation, potentially encouraging other nations to seek similar concessions.
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