Key facts
- House Democrats Gregory Meeks, Brad Sherman, John Garamendi, and Don Beyer introduced a Joint Resolution of Disapproval.
- The resolution aims to block a nuclear cooperation agreement between the US and Saudi Arabia.
- Lawmakers argue the deal breaks from the 'Gold Standard' for nuclear deals by limiting IAEA inspections to declared sites.
- The agreement includes a joint study on the feasibility of a uranium enrichment facility on Saudi Arabian soil.
- Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has stated the kingdom would seek a nuclear weapon if Iran obtains one.
- The Trump administration acknowledged the Crown Prince's statements in its communication to Congress.
Four Democratic lawmakers have introduced a resolution in the US House of Representatives to block a proposed nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia. Representatives Gregory Meeks, Brad Sherman, John Garamendi, and Don Beyer stated that the agreement deviates from established nonproliferation standards and poses significant risks.
The lawmakers expressed concern that the deal could lead to a nuclear arms race in a volatile region, citing Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's past statements that the kingdom would pursue nuclear weapons if Iran acquired them. They also noted the agreement's terms, which they argue are weaker than the 'Gold Standard' for nuclear deals, allowing for a joint study on uranium enrichment up to 20% and limiting International Atomic Energy Agency inspections to declared sites.
The Trump administration sent the proposed agreement to Congress in August, initiating a 90-day review period. The administration has defended the deal, asserting it includes necessary nonproliferation measures and that failing to reach an agreement with Saudi Arabia could lead the kingdom to pursue nuclear technology from US adversaries like China or Russia. The lawmakers are pushing for the release of two classified 'side letters' related to the deal, which they argue have no precedent for being withheld.