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Congressional Democrats Move to Block Proposed US-Saudi Civilian Nuclear Agreement
Just the facts
Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman signed a bilateral 1-2-3 civil nuclear agreement allowing U.S. assistance in developing Saudi Arabia's peaceful nuclear power sector. Representative Brad Sherman introduced a resolution in the House to block the deal, citing concerns that potential future domestic uranium enrichment provisions lack sufficient safeguards against weapons proliferation. The agreement requires Saudi Arabia to submit to International Atomic Energy Agency inspections but does not require adoption of the IAEA Additional Protocol. Supporters of the pact, including former Deputy Energy Secretary Dan Poneman, argue that U.S. involvement provides essential oversight and prevents Saudi Arabia from partnering with alternative nuclear suppliers such as China or Russia.
Why this is news
Congressional Democrats introduced resolutions of disapproval aimed at halting the Trump administration's proposed civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia.
Sources
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