The Middle East is approaching another historic crossroads.

Reports that the United States and Saudi Arabia are preparing to conclude a civilian nuclear agreement have already sparked debate in Washington, Jerusalem, and across the region. Some see an economic opportunity. Others see a strategic necessity. Still others see the beginning of a dangerous new chapter in the Middle East’s nuclear history.

All three perspectives contain elements of truth.

Saudi Arabia is fully entitled to pursue peaceful nuclear energy. Every sovereign nation has the right to diversify its energy portfolio, invest in advanced technology, and prepare for a future beyond oil. The United States also has legitimate reasons to deepen its partnership with Riyadh rather than allow China or Russia to become the kingdom’s primary strategic partner.

Yet this agreement cannot be viewed through the narrow lens of economics or commercial diplomacy.

It must be judged by a far more important standard: Will it make the Middle East safer?

That question is especially relevant after years of Iranian nuclear brinkmanship, regional proxy wars, and unprecedented instability. The last thing the Middle East needs is another source of strategic ambiguity.

Civilian nuclear energy and nuclear weapons are not the same thing. But they are not completely separate either.

The technologies required to enrich uranium are inherently dual-use. Under strict international oversight they can power hospitals, industries, and........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)