Trump says Saudi nuclear deal hinges on kingdom normalizing ties with Israel
US President Donald Trump has stated that any nuclear cooperation with Saudi Arabia is conditional on the kingdom normalizing diplomatic relations with Israel, as part of a broader Middle East realignment.
Washington is opening the door to Saudi Arabia's nuclear energy ambitions, but with a condition. President Donald Trump announced that a nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia depends on the kingdom normalizing relations with Israel. This move is part of a broader strategy to reshape the Middle East.
The announcement comes as the US considers supporting Saudi Arabia's civilian nuclear program, which could include uranium enrichment. Trump emphasized that no agreement would be possible without progress in Saudi-Israeli ties.
This stance reflects the Trump administration's efforts to build a new regional coalition aimed at countering Iran. Israel has long warned against nuclear proliferation in the Middle East and has opposed Saudi nuclear ambitions without strict safeguards. Normalization between the two countries would be a historic shift, as Saudi Arabia has never recognized Israel.
Trump's statement comes amid discussions between the US and Saudi Arabia on broader security and economic cooperation. Saudi Arabia seeks to develop nuclear energy to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil. However, concerns about nuclear weapons proliferation remain a key obstacle.
Normalization with Israel could significantly alter the geopolitical landscape of the region. Trump has called this the "deal of the century" and hopes to finalize an agreement that would enhance peace and stability.
