Kazakhstan Moves to Join Abraham Accords with Israel

Kazakhstan is preparing to join the Abraham Accords, a framework aimed at normalising relations between Israel and Muslim-majority nations.

The announcement followed a phone call involving the US President, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. A formal signing ceremony is expected soon, with more countries anticipated to follow.

Kazakhstan confirmed that discussions are in the final stage, describing the move as consistent with its longstanding approach to diplomacy based on dialogue, mutual respect, and regional stability.

Although Kazakhstan already maintains full diplomatic and economic relations with Israel, officials described the new step as an enhanced partnership that aligns the country more closely with other participants in the accords. Supporters say the agreement will create expanded economic cooperation and joint development opportunities.

The US has recently engaged more actively with Central Asian nations, seeking greater influence in a region where Russia and China have traditionally held strong political and economic presence. During meetings in Washington, US officials suggested that further announcements from other Central Asian states may follow.

The Abraham Accords were first launched in 2020, when the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain formalised relations with Israel, followed later by Morocco. Efforts to expand the accords had slowed amid the Gaza conflict, though recent diplomatic discussions have renewed momentum.

Saudi Arabia remains seen as a key potential future participant, but has maintained that any move towards normalisation must be linked to progress towards Palestinian statehood.