IAEA: Saudi Arabia's Research Reactor Nearly Completed

On Wednesday, December 13, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated that Saudi Arabia's research reactor is nearly complete, and the IAEA is in discussions with Riyadh regarding necessary inspections. Rafael Grossi, the IAEA director, mentioned that the Argentine company INVAP, which is constructing the reactor, has completed the fuel and is set to send it to Saudi Arabia. He noted, "Of course, there are several regulatory aspects to consider, as once Saudi Arabia has a research reactor, we need to have a comprehensive safeguards agreement in place." Grossi added that Riyadh is close to signing the IAEA agreement, which has been updated since 2015. Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Energy, stated in September that the kingdom has decided to end the current IAEA oversight of its nuclear activities, which is not very comprehensive and is conducted superficially, and to fully implement the safeguards as the IAEA has requested for years. During his visit to Riyadh, Grossi responded to reporters' questions about when the fuel would arrive in Saudi Arabia, stating it is "dependent on the Saudis' decision" and that the Argentine company is technically ready. Saudi Arabia aims to expand its nascent nuclear program and eventually be capable of activities including sensitive uranium enrichment. It is unclear where Riyadh's nuclear ambitions will lead, as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has long stated that if Iran, Saudi Arabia's regional rival, produces nuclear weapons, Saudi Arabia will do the same. The IAEA has warned for years about Iran's nuclear program, and the U.S. and the European Union have sanctioned the Iranian government and officials for advancing a suspicious nuclear program and uranium enrichment that has military applications. Tehran claims it pursues its nuclear program solely for peaceful purposes, a claim the IAEA remains suspicious of.