Saudi Makes 20-Year Nuclear Plan

Lesson Brief Al Sharq Al Awsat
On April 13, Al Sharq Al Awsat reported that Saudi Arabia is outlining a 20-year nuclear power plan which include constructing nuclear reactors. The first, according to the current plan, would be built in 2022. The desire for nuclear power ostensibly lies in the region's lack of a sustainable energy source, with finite supplies of oil, and a need for fresh water. However, such planning is likely also in response to US-Iranian efforts to secure a nuclear deal; as it stands the Saudis are not pleased with the arrangement, and this announcement could be considered a warning, fueling the idea that allowing Iran's nuclear program to proceed will encourage other Gulf countries to consider nuclear power, a proliferation risk the West is keen to obstruct.

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