Pakistan, July 23 -- The United States and Saudi Arabia signed a civil nuclear cooperation agreement on Wednesday. The deal allows Saudi Arabia to develop nuclear reactors using American technology. Israeli leaders and opposition figures warned it could trigger a regional arms race.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman signed the agreement. The accord, known as a 123 Agreement, also includes a bilateral safeguards agreement. However, it still requires approval from the US Congress.

Read more: US approves major weapons deal to strengthen Saudi air defence

According to the US Energy Department, the agreement establishes a long-term partnership on peaceful nuclear energy. Officials said it...