Trump signs off on deal that could lead to Saudi Arabia enriching uranium, AP sources say

A reported new multi-decade deal could pave the way for the United States to help Saudi Arabia with uranium enrichment capabilities for the Middle Eastern nation’s civilian nuclear program. 

Big picture view:

Citing two people who are familiar with the issue but are not authorized to speak about it publicly, The Associated Press reported Tuesday night that President Donald Trump signed off on the plan, which has not been formally revealed. An announcement could come as soon as Wednesday.

The backstory:

The deal could lead to the construction of a uranium enrichment facility in Saudi Arabia that would come after a joint study with the U.S., according to the AP report. The agreement is expected to last 30 years and would likely involve U.S. firms helping develop the program. 

Dig deeper:

Both Trump and former President Joe Biden have tried to reach a nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia to share American technology.

Nuclear nonproliferation experts have cautioned that centrifuges in Saudi Arabia could open the door to the nation possibly building a weapons program, which is something Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has suggested his country would pursue if Iran were to obtain a nuclear weapon. 

What's next:

The deal is expected to be submitted to Congress, where it may receive pushback from lawmakers who fear that Saudi Arabia’s gaining the ability to enrich its own uranium could trigger new rounds of nuclear proliferation and competition. 

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