US Removes Israel Normalization Condition From Saudi Civilian Nuclear Talks Under Trump, Reuters Reports

The United States has reportedly removed the requirement for Saudi Arabia to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel as a precondition for civil nuclear cooperation talks. This marks a departure from the previous approach under President Joe Biden, which linked nuclear discussions and a U.S.-Saudi defense pact to Saudi-Israel normalization. The change, reported by Reuters citing informed sources, indicates that Washington may proceed with its nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia without Israeli involvement unless Israel alters its stance. The shift is associated with the administration of President Donald Trump, who is said to support granting Saudi Arabia civilian nuclear capabilities without demanding normalization with Israel in return.