Recent discussions surrounding a US-Saudi nuclear agreement indicate that while Riyadh will not be adopting the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Additional Protocol, there are plans to implement measures that enhance the agency’s oversight capabilities.
In July, the United States and Saudi Arabia formalized an agreement that paves the way for collaboration in civil nuclear energy, allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium and construct nuclear reactors with American technology. However, this deal has drawn criticism from non-proliferation advocates, including the Arms Control Association, for its omission of the Additional Protocol. This protocol enables the IAEA to conduct immediate inspections at locations that have not been declared.
Historically, Iran adhered to the Additional Protocol from 2016 until 2021 as part of a nuclear pact with world powers, which collapsed following the US withdrawal in 2018. IAEA Director Rafael Grossi noted that while the Additional Protocol represents the “ideal scenario,” Saudi Arabia is taking steps to exceed the basic requirements of its Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement with the IAEA.
Details of Enhanced Monitoring Measures
Grossi emphasized the importance of the ongoing consultations, which have facilitated the incorporation of several provisions into the bilateral agreement that will empower the IAEA with additional verification and monitoring capabilities. These enhancements will specifically address activities related to uranium enrichment, uranium conversion, and the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel.
He remarked on the sensitivity of these operations, stating that the authorizations being discussed will mimic those typically found under the Additional Protocol. Although he refrained from providing extensive details, Grossi confirmed that these measures would significantly bolster the IAEA’s oversight role.
Once the agreement is finalized, it will be submitted to the IAEA’s Board of Governors, comprised of 35 member nations, for consideration and approval.
