Overview
- Kazakhstan confirmed its accession in an official statement that framed the move as a natural extension of its foreign policy.
- The announcement came at the White House during the C5+1 summit with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, with a planned call to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
- Kazakhstan and Israel have maintained diplomatic ties since 1992, so officials describe the step as largely symbolic yet useful for restoring Israel’s regional standing after the Gaza war.
- U.S. officials say the move is intended to build momentum ahead of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Nov. 18 visit, with a formal signing ceremony in Washington under consideration.
- Officials highlighted prospective cooperation in defense, cybersecurity, energy and food technology, and the U.S. and Kazakhstan signed a separate critical minerals agreement.