The United States is set to announce a significant nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, according to media reports.The deal, which will provide billions in funding for the US nuclear industry, includes a 30-year provision allowing American companies to build a uranium enrichment facility in Saudi Arabia if a joint study deems it necessary.

However, the agreement lacks key safeguards such as the 'Gold Standard' to prevent nuclear proliferation and the 'Additional Protocol' for enhanced international oversight.

Critics argue this could enable Saudi Arabia to develop nuclear weapons, given Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's past statements about matching Iran's nuclear capabilities.

The agreement, part of a 123 Agreement under the US Atomic Energy Act, does not obligate the US to transfer nuclear technology but creates a legal pathway for collaboration.

Despite opposition from some lawmakers and arms control advocates, the deal is expected to be submitted to Congress soon, though approval is not required for implementation.This development highlights ongoing tensions in US-Saudi relations and global concerns about nuclear proliferation.