Saudi Nuclear Deal Sparks Fears of Regional Instability

The U.S.-Saudi Arabia nuclear deal has been met with controversy after being announced in the midst of a war between the U.S. and Iran over Tehran's nuclear program.

The agreement, signed on July 22, was made contingent on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords, which normalizes ties between Israel and several Arab states.

Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman (MBS) has long sought to develop a civilian nuclear program to meet rising domestic energy demand and free up more oil for export as part of his Vision 2030 initiative.

The deal leaves open the possibility of nuclear enrichment on Saudi soil, which has raised concerns that the kingdom could eventually acquire the capability to weaponize its nuclear program.