Trump: Saudi Arabia Must Recognize Israel for Nuclear Deal

US President Donald Trump stated that a historic nuclear agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia depends on Riyadh joining the Abraham Accords and recognizing the state of Israel. The statement links a potential civilian nuclear cooperation deal to normalization of Saudi-Israeli relations, a key geopolitical shift in the Middle East. Trump made the remarks in a recent interview, emphasizing that Saudi Arabia must take this step to secure the nuclear deal. The Abraham Accords, brokered during his first term, normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations, but Saudi Arabia has so far held out. The announcement comes amid ongoing US-led efforts to expand the accords and counter Iran's regional influence. Saudi officials have not yet responded to Trump's latest condition.

Global Impact

Politically, the condition could accelerate or derail the most significant Middle East realignment since the Camp David Accords. Economically, a Saudi-Israel normalization would unlock cross-border investment, tourism, and energy cooperation, while a nuclear deal would give Saudi Arabia enriched uranium capabilities under strict safeguards.