Trump Administration Shared Nuclear Technical Expertise With Saudi Arabia

The Trump administration twice approved the transfer of nuclear technical expertise to Saudi Arabia after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. These authorizations, known as Part 810, were granted by the United States Department of Energy to allow U.S. companies to share blueprints and nuclear reactor designs with Riyadh to secure contracts for the kingdom's nuclear energy program.

Senator Tim Kaine disclosed the timing of these authorizations on Tuesday, sparking frustration among members of Congress. Lawmakers allege that the administration blindsided them and failed to provide the full information required under the U.S. Atomic Energy Act.

These transfers occurred alongside other administration actions, including the approval of a multibillion-dollar arms sales package and ongoing support for Saudi military intervention in Yemen, despite objections from Congress.