Modi’s Israel Visit Signals Deepening Ties Amidst Regional Tensions

As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for a two-day visit to Israel beginning February 25, 2026, the trip underscores a dramatically strengthened relationship between the two nations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described the connection as a “special relationship,” mirroring the language typically reserved for the United States-Israel alliance. The visit comes at a critical juncture, as the prospect of conflict with Iran escalates and Israel continues its military operations in Gaza.

Why is Modi Traveling to Israel?

Over the past two and a half years, India has consistently supported Israel, providing diplomatic backing even as concerns regarding potential war crimes in Gaza persist. Following the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas, Modi was among the first world leaders to call Netanyahu, signaling India’s solidarity with Israel’s narrative of self-defense .

Netanyahu stated the visit will be an opportunity to “tighten” cooperation in economic, diplomatic, and security areas . India views Israel as a key partner in technological and military advancements.

Key Focus Areas of the Visit

Defense cooperation forms the cornerstone of the India-Israel relationship. Between 2015 and 2019, India’s purchases of Israeli weapons increased by 175 percent . India has been the largest purchaser of Israeli military technology, including drones, missile systems, and surveillance equipment.

Modi’s “Make in India” program seeks to modernize India’s military and increase domestic production, with Israel playing a significant role in this effort. Beyond arms imports, India and Israel are increasingly co-producing weapons, expanding Israel’s global reach.

In September, Delhi signed a Bilateral Investment Agreement with Israel, aimed at protecting investments and fostering economic integration . Discussions during the visit are expected to focus on expanding intelligence cooperation, weapons development, and technology transfer, potentially including joint development of anti-ballistic missile defense systems, valued at up to $10 billion over several years .

Cooperation will likewise extend to high-tech, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing .

A “Hexagon” of Alliances

Netanyahu has proposed forming a broader alliance, a “hexagon” encompassing India, Arab nations, African nations, Mediterranean countries (Greece and Cyprus), and Asian nations, as a means to counter Iran and promote regional stability . This initiative builds upon the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and aims to consolidate regional alignments.

Symbolism and Domestic Considerations

Modi is scheduled to address the Israeli Knesset, a privilege typically reserved for distinguished guests. He will also host a tech and innovation event in Jerusalem and visit Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Museum .

Notably, Modi will not travel to the occupied West Bank or Gaza, and discussions regarding the ongoing conflict or Israel’s policies in the occupied territories are not expected to be part of the agenda. This aligns with India’s policy of de-hyphenating Israel and Palestine, even as it maintains a stated commitment to a two-state solution .

Indian Reactions

The visit is expected to be well-received by Modi’s supporters in India, reinforcing his image as a global leader. However, it has also drawn criticism from activists and pro-Palestine advocates, who have faced crackdowns from Indian authorities during protests . Jairam Ramesh, a spokesperson for the Indian National Congress, criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the visit, pointing to Netanyahu’s actions in Gaza .

Israeli Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, described the relationship as a “partnership built on trust” .