- By Vaidika Thapa
- Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:28 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
- Trump sets new condition for US-Saudi nuclear deal.
- Saudi Arabia must join Abraham Accords, recognize Israel.
- Civilian nuclear agreement depends on diplomatic normalization.
US President Donald Trump on Thursday added a new condition to the proposed US-Saudi Arabia civilian nuclear agreement. He stated that the deal will move forward only if Saudi Arabia joins the Abraham Accords and establishes diplomatic relations with Israel.
Trump Says Deal Depends On Abraham Accords
Trump announced the condition a day after the agreement was formally approved on Wednesday. His remark has raised eyebrows, especially since Saudi Arabia has maintained that recognising Israel would require progress towards Palestinian statehood. He clarified that the deal is for non-military purposes and would be approved only if Saudi Arabia joins the Abraham Accords.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “The Civil Nuclear Deal (There will be no enrichment of material!) being made between the United States Department of Energy and Saudi Arabia, which pertains only to non-military use such as the ones that Iran and UAE (and others) already have, will be approved, but is totally subject to Saudi Arabia joining the very respected and successful Abraham Accords. The United States is not opposed to Civil (Non-Enriched) Nuclear Facilities. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP.”
US-Saudi Nuclear Deal
Trump has approved an agreement allowing Saudi Arabia to develop a civilian nuclear programme. The agreement was signed on Wednesday by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and his Saudi counterpart. The deal, known as a 123 agreement, is expected to remain in place for 30 years. It is also expected to involve US companies providing technology and expertise to help develop Saudi Arabia’s nuclear programme.
What Are Abraham Accords?
The Abraham Accords are agreements aimed at normalising diplomatic, economic and security relations between Israel and several Arab countries. The initiative was launched by Trump in 2020 during his first term as US President. Under the agreements, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain became the first Arab countries to establish formal relations with Israel. Morocco and Sudan later joined the framework in 2020.
Which Countries Don't Recognise Israel?
Trump has repeatedly encouraged countries including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Qatar, Turkey and Jordan to join the Abraham Accords and recognise Israel as part of wider diplomatic efforts in the region. However, several Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq and Oman have still not joined the Accords and don't recognise Israel too.
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