Washington Expands Nuclear Tech Exports to Saudi Arabia in New Pact

Congressional review of nuclear cooperation agreements – known as 123 agreements – typically runs for 90 days, during which members can raise objections. The Energy Department said it would transmit the deal to Congress but did not give a timeline for final approval.

The deal reinforces the broader US-Saudi strategic relationship, which has historically affected oil production decisions within OPEC+, according to the announcement. It also extends Washington's footprint in the Gulf at a time when Riyadh is pursuing a more independent foreign policy.

For oil markets, the agreement strengthens the bilateral relationship, with potential implications for OPEC+ coordination, the announcement said. The nonproliferation terms are expected to be closely watched by regional rivals and by lawmakers concerned about Saudi ambitions around uranium enrichment.

The Energy Department said the agreements were designed to advance a range of economic and security objectives. No date was given for when Congress would receive the formal transmission.