Israeli opposition leaders have criticized the US-Saudi civil nuclear cooperation agreement, calling it a major setback for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The criticism followed Washington’s announcement of a new nuclear partnership with Riyadh.
The US Energy Department confirmed that Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman signed the agreement. The deal, known as a 123 Agreement, aims to strengthen peaceful civil nuclear cooperation between both countries.
Opposition Labels Agreement Diplomatic Failure
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett described the agreement as a massive diplomatic failure. He claimed Israel was excluded from discussions surrounding the deal. Bennett also linked the development to ongoing US-Iran negotiations.
Meanwhile, former Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman called the agreement a major and catastrophic failure for Netanyahu. He argued that the deal could trigger a regional nuclear arms race. Opposition leader Yair Lapid also criticized Netanyahu, describing the agreement as a complete failure.
Agreement Heads to US Congress
According to reports, US President Donald Trump approved the 30-year agreement, worth billions of dollars. The deal gives American companies a leading role in developing Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear program. It also includes plans to build nuclear reactors using US technology.
Furthermore, the agreement provides for a two-year joint study on uranium enrichment within Saudi Arabia. Under the framework, Riyadh would avoid seeking another nuclear partner for 10 years if Washington objects.
The agreement will now be submitted to the US Congress for review. If lawmakers raise no objections during the review period, the agreement will officially enter into force.
