Agencies | Jerusalem, Feb 25:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel on Wednesday to a ceremonial red-carpet welcome, received at Ben Gurion Airport by his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu.
This marks Modi’s second visit to Israel in nine years. During his historic 2017 trip, India and Israel elevated their ties to the level of a strategic partnership — a framework that has since expanded across defence, technology, trade, and innovation.
Netanyahu greeted Modi with a warm embrace before the Indian leader was accorded a ceremonial reception at the airport, located about 20 kilometres southeast of Tel Aviv. Later in the day, Modi is scheduled to address Israel’s parliament and hold a one-on-one meeting with Netanyahu. Delegation-level talks between the two leaders are set for Thursday, where a wide spectrum of bilateral and global issues will be discussed.
Expanding Strategic Ties
In his pre-departure statement, Modi expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen the “robust and multifaceted strategic partnership” between the two countries.
“India and Israel share a dynamic relationship that has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years,” he said, highlighting cooperation in science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management, defence and security, trade and investment, and people-to-people exchanges.
He also indicated that discussions would cover pressing regional and global developments of mutual concern.
Visit Amid Regional Tensions
The visit assumes heightened geopolitical importance as it comes against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in West Asia, including strained relations between the United States and Iran. Observers say the timing underscores India’s calibrated diplomatic outreach in a volatile region where it maintains strategic ties with multiple stakeholders.
Defence and Security Cooperation
Defence cooperation remains a cornerstone of the partnership. Israel has emerged as a key supplier of advanced military platforms and weapon systems to India. In recent months, both sides have reinforced this pillar through high-level exchanges and agreements, including a defence cooperation pact signed during the visit of India’s defence secretary to Israel in November.
Sources indicate that as India advances its indigenous air defence programme, “Sudarshan Chakra,” New Delhi is exploring the possibility of incorporating elements of Israel’s renowned Iron Dome all-weather air defence system, known for intercepting and neutralising incoming missiles and artillery shells.
Trade, Investment and FTA Talks
Economic engagement between the two nations is also gaining momentum. During Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s visit to Israel in November, both sides signed the Terms of Reference to launch negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement. Earlier, in September, India and Israel concluded a Bilateral Investment Agreement aimed at deepening commercial cooperation and facilitating cross-border investments.
Strong People-to-People Connect
Beyond strategic and economic dimensions, the partnership is underpinned by vibrant people-to-people ties. An Indian diaspora of over 41,000 in Israel continues to play a vital role in strengthening cultural and economic linkages between the two nations.
As Prime Minister Modi embarks on high-level engagements in Jerusalem, the visit is widely expected to chart the next phase of India-Israel relations — reinforcing a partnership rooted in innovation, resilience, and shared strategic interests.
