Modi’s Israel Visit Signals Deepening Ties Amidst Global Shifts
New Delhi, India – As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Ben Gurion airport outside Tel Aviv on July 4, 2017, he was greeted by his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu. That visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel, marked a turning point in the relationship between the two nations. Nine years later, as Modi prepares to visit Israel again on February 25th and 26th, 2026, the partnership has evolved into a robust alliance, despite ongoing international scrutiny of Israel’s actions and shifting geopolitical dynamics.
From Clandestine to Public Friendship
A relationship once conducted with discretion is now a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy. Prime Minister Modi has consistently described Netanyahu as a “dear friend,” even as the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant in late 2024 for Netanyahu over alleged war crimes committed during Israel’s military operations in Gaza. Indian officials justify the close ties as a “pragmatic approach,” citing Israel’s technological and military expertise as crucial assets, while simultaneously working to maintain relationships with Arab allies.
A Shift in Ideological Alignment
India’s historical support for the Palestinian cause began to shift following the complete of the Cold War. Establishing diplomatic relations with Israel in January 1992, India began a period of increasing cooperation, particularly in defense. This trend accelerated with Modi’s rise to power in 2014. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with its Hindu nationalist ideology, shares common ground with Israel’s self-definition as a Jewish homeland. Both nations identify “Islamic terrorism” as a significant threat, a framing that has drawn criticism for potentially justifying broader anti-Muslim policies.
Growing Defense and Economic Cooperation
Under Modi, India has become Israel’s largest weapons buyer. In 2024, Indian companies reportedly sold rockets and explosives to Israel during its war in Gaza. Ahead of the February visit, a memorandum of understanding was signed to deepen defense ties, including potential joint development of anti-ballistic missile defense systems. Trade between the two countries has grown significantly, from $200 million in 1992 to over $6 billion in 2024, with India as Israel’s second-largest Asian trading partner after China.
Strategic Implications and Regional Context
Netanyahu has described India as a “global power” and envisions a “hexagon” of alliances in the region that includes India. Modi is scheduled to address the Knesset during his visit, underscoring the significance of the strengthened relationship. The timing of the visit is likewise notable for Netanyahu, as Israel heads into a national election. Modi’s support is seen as potentially boosting Netanyahu’s image as an international statesman.
Balancing Act and Concerns over Moral Credibility
Despite the deepening ties with Israel, India continues to call for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and advocates for peace through dialogue. However, critics argue that India’s reluctance to strongly criticize Israel’s actions in the occupied Palestinian territory has come at a cost to its moral standing. Anwar Alam, a senior fellow with the Policy Perspectives Foundation, stated that India’s “realist turn” has diminished its moral power in the Global South. Some analysts believe Modi’s visit legitimizes the Israeli state amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Looking Ahead
India’s strategic autonomy allows it to maintain relationships with Israel, Arab powers, and Iran. However, the evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly with potential US-Iran conflict, could reshape the regional dynamics. India may be positioning itself to benefit from a Middle East where Israel emerges as a regional hegemon. Modi’s visit reinforces India’s commitment to a strong partnership with Israel, signaling a continued shift in India’s foreign policy and its role on the global stage.