Report: Saudi Arabia mulls developing nuclear weapon, U.S. officials say
Officials speaking with The New York Times and The Washington Post said an assessment was sent to Congress while lawmakers review the Trump administration's civilian nuclear pact with Riyadh. Israeli officials have expressed concern about the deal
US officials have reported that Saudi Arabia is considering developing a nuclear weapon. According to a classified US intelligence assessment provided to Congress, Saudi Arabia has kept open the option of developing nuclear weapons. This has raised concerns about possible nuclear proliferation in the Middle East.
The assessment comes as lawmakers review the Trump administration's civilian nuclear pact with Riyadh. Israeli officials have expressed concern about the deal. Saudi Arabia has been involved in a conflict with Yemen's Houthis, who are backed by Iran. The situation has led to Saudi Arabia seeking support from other countries, with some offering military assistance.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been seeking support to defend against Iran and its proxies. He has reportedly sought US military intervention, but was refused. Instead, the US has provided intelligence assistance and targeting information. Other countries, including Britain, Turkey, and Pakistan, have also offered support to Saudi Arabia.
Brief written by urgent.news from Haaretz, Hindustan Times - World News, Jerusalem Post, Daily Times, Winnipeg Free Press — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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