IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stated that while Saudi Arabia has not signed the Additional Protocol, it is prepared to grant the agency oversight powers over enrichment, conversion, and reprocessing that are functionally similar to those established by the protocol.

The underlying US-Saudi 123 agreement, signed in July, potentially permits domestic uranium enrichment after a two-year study, marking a departure from the UAE’s previous enrichment-free framework. Currently in its 90-day congressional review period, the deal faces objections from Democrats and nonproliferation advocates, with two accompanying side letters remaining classified.

According to a Downing Street spokesperson, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and U.S. President Donald Trump agreed on Monday to continue efforts toward a Ukrainian ceasefire and reaffirmed U.K. support for ongoing peace negotiations. The leaders also discussed Middle East security, emphasizing the Two-State Solution, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Downing Street stated that Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump agreed on the importance of pursuing a ceasefire in Ukraine, with the Prime Minister expressing support for ongoing US-led peace efforts. Additionally, the UK reaffirmed its commitment to Middle East peace, emphasizing the Two-State Solution and the prevention of nuclear proliferation in Iran.

US officials report that intensified sanctions and a naval blockade have curtailed Iran’s oil exports and foreign currency access, according to regional sources. While these measures aim to compel Tehran to ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian authorities remain defiant, with domestic resilience reportedly mitigating the intended economic impact.