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Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar secured unanimous approval for a national critical minerals program, the Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday. Sa'ar's initiative stems from his participation in the Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington, hosted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This US-led diplomatic effort seeks to reshape critical minerals supply chains, aiming to diminish reliance on China and boost Israel's economic growth and international partnerships.

Sa'ar emphasized the critical importance of securing essential raw materials for both national security and economic prosperity. The program's main objectives include ensuring a stable supply of minerals to the economy and defense sectors, as well as capitalizing on Israel's technological and innovation strengths. The initiative focuses on two key goals: securing essential minerals and developing Israeli assets in the critical minerals sector.

The Foreign Ministry highlighted the initiative's commitment to fostering international cooperation and enhancing Israel's role in critical mineral supply chains. An interministerial team, headed by Eden Bar-Tal, Director-General of the Foreign Ministry, drafted the program's recommendations. The initiative is backed by multiple government ministries and agencies, including the Prime Minister's Office, Defense Ministry, and Israel Innovation Authority.

Israel has also initiated discussions with Kazakhstan on critical minerals cooperation, as the Foreign Ministry reported. The program aims to leverage Israel's unique technological capabilities and turn its dependence on critical minerals into a catalyst for growth and strengthened global connections.