The 123 Agreement as it is known includes non-proliferation requirements in line with the UN International Atomic Energy Agency, but excludes the “Gold Standard”, which blocks uranium enrichment
and reprocessing or spent nuclear fuel, both potential pathways to nuclear weapons, and the “Additional Protocol” giving IAEA oversight
of nuclear activities, including snap inspections of undeclared locations. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has said he would pursue nuclear weapons if Iran manages to obtain them.

Nuclear power in the Middle East appears poised for growth, with even Gulf states looking to diversify their energy supplies. Saudi Arabia will join Iran and the United Arab Emirates, who both have operational nuclear power plants, as well as Türkiye, whose first NPP is due to go online in 2026, Egypt in 2028, and Israel, whose Dimona plant is believed to play a central role in the country’s undeclared nuclear weapons programme.