The U.S. Supreme Court has opted not to hear an appeal from Native American advocacy group Apache Stronghold, paving the way for Rio Tinto and BHP's Resolution Copper project in Arizona. Apache Stronghold argued that the project could harm the sacred Oak Flat site, but the Supreme Court's decision supports lower court rulings that allow the land transfer necessary for the mining operation to proceed, Reuters reported.

The Resolution Copper mine is anticipated to be a significant industrial development, expected to fulfill over a quarter of the U.S. copper demand. This demand is driven largely by industries such as electric vehicles and renewable energy infrastructure, essential areas for future economic growth. Despite these prospects, environmental and cultural concerns have been raised due to the potential environmental impact, including creating a massive crater that may destroy the culturally significant Oak Flat site.

Local political figures, including Superior, Arizona’s Mayor Mila Besich, view the project favorably for potential economic benefits, such as job creation and economic growth in the region. However, the Supreme Court's decision was not unanimous, with Justices Neil Gorsuch and Clarence Thomas dissenting, highlighting their concerns about the impact on the sacred site and the perceived lack of rigorous legal review.