Disapproving the proposed civilian nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia submitted to the Congress on September 14, 2026.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Meeks, Gregory W. [D-NY-5]
- Committees
- Foreign Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 16, 2026
Bottom line
This resolution seeks to block a proposed civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, preventing the transfer of U.S. nuclear technology and materials to the Kingdom.
What it actually does
This joint resolution expresses Congressional disapproval of a proposed civilian nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia. Such an agreement, often referred to as a "123 Agreement" under the Atomic Energy Act, allows for the transfer of nuclear material, equipment, and technology. By disapproving it, the resolution aims to prevent the agreement from taking effect, thereby blocking U.S. nuclear cooperation with Saudi Arabia.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the proposed nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia lacks sufficient non-proliferation safeguards, particularly regarding uranium enrichment and reprocessing capabilities, which could contribute to nuclear proliferation risks in a volatile region. They contend that the U.S. should not provide nuclear technology without the highest "gold standard" safeguards to prevent potential weaponization.
Opponents contend
Opponents of this resolution (i.e., proponents of the nuclear agreement) would argue that blocking the agreement undermines U.S. strategic interests, including strengthening alliances, promoting regional stability, and ensuring U.S. influence in Saudi Arabia's energy sector development. They might assert that the agreement includes adequate safeguards or that the U.S. risks losing out to other international partners (like China or Russia) if it does not proceed with cooperation.
The bill text is extremely short and straightforward, requiring less than a minute to read. The time given for analysis allows for a comprehensive examination of its significant policy implications.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That Congress disapproves of the proposed civilian nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia submitted pursuant to section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to the Congress on September 14, 2026.
Disapproval of U.S.-Saudi Arabia Civilian Nuclear Cooperation Agreement
This provision explicitly states that the U.S. Congress disapproves of the civilian nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia that was submitted on September 14, 2026. Under Section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, such an agreement requires a period of Congressional review, during which Congress can pass a joint resolution of disapproval to prevent it from taking effect. This resolution, if enacted, would effectively block the proposed agreement.
Supporters argue
Supporters of this disapproval argue that it upholds strict non-proliferation standards by preventing Saudi Arabia from developing indigenous uranium enrichment or reprocessing capabilities, which could be diverted for weapons purposes. They believe it is crucial to maintain the "gold standard" in nuclear cooperation agreements to prevent proliferation in the Middle East.
Critics contend
Opponents of this disapproval (i.e., those who support the agreement) would contend that blocking the agreement pushes Saudi Arabia towards less transparent nuclear suppliers like Russia or China, potentially leading to weaker non-proliferation safeguards overall. They might also argue that the agreement is a vital component of a broader strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia, crucial for regional stability and counterbalancing adversaries.
Tradeoffs
The resolution highlights the tension between strategic geopolitical alliances and strict nuclear non-proliferation principles. It forces a choice between potentially strengthening a key Middle East partnership through nuclear cooperation and mitigating the risk of nuclear proliferation in a volatile region by denying access to sensitive technologies.