Nonproliferation experts urge Congress to block Saudi nuclear deal

Nuclear nonproliferation experts are urging the United States Congress to block a proposed deal by the Trump administration that would allow for the sale of nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia. The pushback follows reports that the administration is preparing a formal request for legislative approval to facilitate the transfer of reactor technology to the Kingdom. The core of the opposition centers on the lack of a "Gold Standard" agreement. In typical U.S. nuclear cooperation deals, known as 123 Agreements, the recipient nation must pledge not to enrich uranium or reprocess spent fuel—two critical steps required to produce nuclear weapons. Critics argue that the current administration is willing to bypass these restrictions to secure the multibillion-dollar energy contract. National Security Concerns Dozens of arms control specialists have signed letters to congressional leaders, warning that providing sensitive technology without strict safeguards could trigger a regional arms race. Saudi officials have previously stated that if regional rivals develop nuclear capabilities, the Kingdom would feel compelled to follow suit. According to Reuters, the U.S. Department of Energy has already issued several "Part 810" authorizations, allowing American companies to share preliminary technical information with Saudi entities. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed skepticism regarding the deal. Congressional oversight is legally required for any agreement involving the export of…