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Why Is the U.S. Building the Saudi Nuclear Program While Destroying Iran’s?

July 23, 2026 • 25m

Summary

⏱️ 8 min read

Overview

This episode examines the United States' historic nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia, which allows the kingdom to develop nuclear reactors and potentially produce its own nuclear fuel. The deal raises significant concerns about nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, particularly as it comes with looser restrictions than previous agreements. The timing is especially notable given the ongoing U.S. war with Iran and the administration's stated goal of preventing Iranian nuclear capabilities.

The Origins and Evolution of the Saudi Nuclear Deal

The Saudi nuclear deal has been in development for over a decade, evolving through multiple administrations. Saudi Arabia, like its Arab neighbors, seeks nuclear power to modernize its economy and reduce petroleum dependence. The UAE set a precedent in 2009 with what was considered the gold standard agreement, which included strict restrictions on fuel production and intrusive inspections. However, Saudi Arabia has been more reluctant to accept such limitations, leading to years of complex negotiations.

  • The deal has been brewing for more than 10 years, taking many different forms over time
  • Saudi Arabia wants nuclear power to drive economies with data centers as much as petroleum and build modern societies
  • The UAE struck a gold standard deal in 2009, agreeing not to produce its own nuclear fuel and allowing the most intrusive inspections
  • Saudi Arabia has been more reluctant than the UAE to give up their right to produce nuclear fuel
" They're thinking about a future in which their economies are driven as much by data centers as petroleum. They want to build modern societies. "

What Each Side Gets From the Deal

The Trump administration approached the nuclear deal primarily as a business transaction rather than a diplomatic breakthrough. Saudi Arabia gains the ability to build at least two nuclear reactors with American technology over a 30-year partnership. The United States benefits from billions in revenue for American companies like Westinghouse and strengthens ties with a key ally through long-term energy infrastructure commitments.

  • Saudi Arabia gets to build at least two nuclear reactors, probably more, in a deal lasting three decades
  • The business will largely go to American companies, particularly Westinghouse
  • The US gets an extension of Trump's determination to export American goods and tie allies to American energy systems
  • The deal kicks the crucial question of fuel enrichment down the road to a committee study
" For President Biden, the idea of getting such a huge diplomatic breakthrough was worth taking a bit more nuclear risk. For President Trump, the idea of getting a big business deal is worth taking a little more nuclear risk. "

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