Tel Aviv: Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has expressed firm rejection of any potential nuclear agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia that would permit Riyadh to enrich uranium. Lapid emphasized the need for Israel to insist that its closest ally, the US, ensures any nuclear cooperation with Saudi Arabia explicitly prohibits uranium enrichment on Saudi soil.

According to Anadolu Agency, Lapid reiterated that this stance was consistent with the position of the Israeli government during his tenure as prime minister in 2021 and 2022. He stated that he had conveyed Israel's strong opposition to uranium enrichment in the Middle East to the US administration at the time and believes the same approach should be upheld now.

Saudi state media, referencing US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, reported that the US is moving towards a significant energy partnership with Saudi Arabia, potentially leading to commercial nuclear development in the kingdom. In September 2023, Saudi Arabia announced its intention to construct its first nuclear power plant, aligning with the sustainable development goals outlined in its Vision 2030 roadmap.