Saudi Arabia Discovers 110 Million Tons of Uranium Ore Near Medina
Saudi Arabia announced the discovery of 110 million tons of uranium ore in the Medina region amid its efforts to develop a civilian nuclear energy program.
Saudi Arabia announced the discovery of approximately 110 million tons of uranium-bearing ore in the Medina region, as part of its efforts to establish a civilian nuclear industry and integrate nuclear energy into its national energy mix. Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman revealed the finding during the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna.
Uranium Exploration and Nuclear Goals
However, the minister did not disclose the concentration of uranium in the discovered ore. Therefore, it is currently impossible to determine how much uranium can be practically and economically extracted from the deposit. Bin Salman stated that the kingdom continues exploration activities for uranium across its territory while simultaneously working to extract uranium as a byproduct of fertilizer production.
The discovery comes as Riyadh accelerates its civilian nuclear program. In July, the United States and Saudi Arabia signed a civil nuclear cooperation agreement, known as a 123 Agreement, enabling American companies to participate in building nuclear infrastructure in the kingdom. According to Reuters, the agreement also allows Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium and build reactors using American technology.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said last week that Saudi Arabia is preparing to grant the agency broader inspection powers as part of its nuclear program's progress. However, Riyadh has not yet adopted the Additional Protocol, which grants agency inspectors the ability to conduct snap inspections at undeclared sites.
Regional Implications and Security
According to the Saudi Ministry of Energy, the national nuclear program aims to reduce dependence on oil and gas for electricity generation, preserve more oil for export, and assist with water desalination. The program includes the construction of the country's first nuclear power plant, featuring two planned pressurized water reactors, as well as developing capabilities in the nuclear fuel cycle.
The possibility that Saudi Arabia might hold independent uranium enrichment capabilities in the future also raises proliferation concerns, particularly after Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman previously declared that if Iran acquires nuclear weapons, his country would seek to obtain similar capabilities.
