The Trump administration has submitted a civilian nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia to Congress, initiating a detailed review process.
According to reports citing unnamed sources, the agreement was officially sent to Congress on Monday, starting a review period that will involve both the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs Committees. This review is expected to last for several months.
The U.S. Department of Energy has outlined several points regarding the civilian nuclear pact, stating that it will:
- “Expand American nuclear technology exports
- Create high-paying U.S. jobs and support long-term economic growth
- Enhance America’s energy and national security stance
- Uphold global nonproliferation standards
- Strengthen the strategic partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia”
The Wall Street Journal reported on the submission to Congress on Tuesday.
This agreement is governed by Section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, which allows for a review phase of 90 days of continuous session in Congress. This also entails a 30-day period for the president to consult with these committees, though it’s not clear if this consultation has already taken place.
An official source told ABC News that the deal hinges on Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Abraham Accords.
On July 23rd, shortly after the agreement was signed, Trump indicated that the pact would depend on the kingdom normalizing relations with Israel, which would be a significant step for the predominantly Muslim country.
Saudi Arabia has expressed resistance to normalizing ties with Israel unless there is an establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
