Security Experts and Opposition Figures Raise Concerns Over Regional Nuclear Proliferation 
The newly signed U.S.-Saudi civilian nuclear cooperation agreement has sparked concern in Israel, where security experts and opposition politicians warn that the deal could fuel a nuclear arms race across the Middle East. The agreement, which still requires approval by the U.S. Congress, would allow Saudi Arabia to develop civilian nuclear reactors using American technology and creates a legal pathway for future cooperation on uranium enrichment.
Critics argue that permitting uranium enrichment on Saudi soil—even for civilian purposes—could increase the risk of nuclear proliferation in an already volatile region. Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, former Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman, and opposition leader Benny Gantz have publicly voiced concerns, warning that the agreement could undermine Israel's long-term security and encourage neighboring countries to pursue similar capabilities.
Saudi Arabia has consistently maintained that its nuclear ambitions are aimed at generating electricity, diversifying its energy mix and supporting its Vision 2030 economic transformation strategy. U.S. officials have also said the agreement is intended for peaceful civilian use and complies with international non-proliferation obligations. However, the deal does not include some of the stricter safeguards found in previous U.S. nuclear agreements, including the "gold standard" commitment not to enrich uranium or reprocess spent nuclear fuel, a point that has drawn criticism from non-proliferation experts.
The agreement is expected to benefit American companies, particularly in the construction of advanced nuclear reactors, while strengthening strategic and economic ties between Washington and Riyadh. It now enters a 90-day congressional review period, during which lawmakers will examine its security, commercial and non-proliferation implications.
Analysts say Israel's concerns stem from the possibility that expanded civilian nuclear capabilities in Saudi Arabia could prompt other regional powers to seek similar technology, potentially accelerating competition in the Middle East. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously stated that the Kingdom would seek a nuclear weapon if Iran were to acquire one, a remark that continues to influence the regional debate over nuclear security.
Supporters of the agreement argue that closer U.S. involvement in Saudi Arabia's nuclear program offers greater oversight than if the Kingdom were to pursue similar partnerships with other countries. Critics, however, maintain that any expansion of sensitive nuclear technologies should be accompanied by the strongest possible safeguards to reduce proliferation risks.
The debate comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following recent military confrontations involving Iran, underscoring the broader strategic implications of nuclear policy in one of the world's most sensitive geopolitical regions.