Congress split over Saudi nuclear agreement amid arms-race concerns
U.S. lawmakers are divided on a proposed civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia, with Democrats warning it could spark a regional arms race and Republicans emphasizing verification and strategic partnership.
Lawmakers expressed sharply contrasting views after the White House announced a proposal to support a civilian nuclear energy program in Saudi Arabia. The Department of Energy said the deal would provide U.S. technology and expertise while including safeguards intended to prevent diversion of nuclear material for weapons.
Republican Rep. Tim Burchett said the United States must develop reliable allies and that verification mechanisms would ensure proper use of the technology. Rep. Mark Alford added that Congress should have a role in reviewing any final agreement and highlighted the importance of regional partners in addressing Iran.
Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin called the proposal "outrageous" and warned that allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium without strict safeguards could trigger a nuclear arms race in the Middle East. Rep. Gregory Meeks echoed the concern, stating that insufficient protocols might encourage other regional states to pursue nuclear weapons.
The debate also touched on broader geopolitical considerations, with some Republicans linking the deal to efforts to counter Iran, while Democrats raised questions about the administration’s approach to non-proliferation.