The National Interest: How Central Asia thinks about Israel

Published: 2026-08-17 12:49

"If Israel has an interest in outreach to Central Asia, it would do well to collaborate with all of its states through a collective framework. “C5+1” is the default used by many foreign powers, such as the United States, China, and India, to engage with Central Asia—whereby all states collectively deal with one partner through that network. Israel could benefit from a C5+1 framework in Central Asia that would facilitate access to critical minerals and to oil and natural gas reserves. Israeli officials already speak of “potential” for the region," according to The National Interest, a mouthpiece of moderate Republicans.

"In such an arrangement, Azerbaijan could be a key factor. The country is Israel’s closest Muslim partner and, increasingly, is collaborating with Central Asia—as a transit point for goods en route to Europe, and as a political ally. In late 2025, the leaders of all five Central Asian countries agreed to add Azerbaijan to the format. If Israel wants a foothold in Central Asia, it’s got one in Azerbaijan. As the region grows fast, the time is ripe for Israel to obtain an early stake," the magazine adds.

By Azerbaijani-Israeli Alliance Global News