Trump Links Saudi Nuclear Deal to Israel Recognition, Sends Pact to Congress
What Happened
US President Donald Trump has sent a landmark 30-year civil nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia to Congress for review. The deal would allow US firms to help develop the kingdom’s civilian nuclear program, but Trump insists it will only take effect if Saudi Arabia normalizes ties with Israel by joining the Abraham Accords. Congress now has a 90-session-day review period.
Key Takeaways
The nuclear pact is being used as leverage for a broader Middle East diplomatic breakthrough. However, Saudi Arabia’s demand for progress toward a Palestinian state before recognizing Israel could make the deal’s final approval challenging.