Prime Minister Narendra Modi appreciated Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s warm remarks during a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, where Netanyahu referred to PM Modi as a “dear friend” and emphasized the significance of their upcoming meeting for bilateral relations.
In response, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the enduring friendship between India and Israel, highlighting the foundation of trust, innovation, and a mutual commitment to peace and progress that characterizes their partnership.
PM Modi eagerly anticipates engaging in meaningful discussions during his forthcoming two-day visit starting on February 25, 2026, as Netanyahu hailed PM Modi’s arrival as a historic moment, emphasizing the robustness of the India-Israel alliance.
Netanyahu envisioned the establishment of a broader “axis of nations” in the Middle East, comprising like-minded countries united against radical elements and dedicated to promoting stability, security, and technological advancements, underscoring his strong personal bond with PM Modi.
The visit’s agenda underscores the depth of cooperation between the two nations, with PM Modi scheduled to address the Knesset, participate in events at Yad Vashem, and engage in a high-tech innovation showcase focusing on collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and emerging technologies.
This visit marks PM Modi’s second trip to Israel following his groundbreaking 2017 visit, which paved the way for enhanced cooperation in defense, agriculture, and water management, while Netanyahu’s reciprocal visit to India in 2018 further solidified the ties, with expectations of expanded collaboration in trade, cybersecurity, and regional security.
Against the backdrop of tensions in the Middle East, PM Modi’s visit signals India’s strategic alignment and cooperation with Israel on counter-terrorism and defense, despite some procedural concerns raised by opposition voices in Israel regarding his Knesset address.
The broader narrative emphasizes the strengthening of the partnership between the two democracies, reflecting a shared commitment to common goals and values, as Netanyahu lauds the “tremendous alliance” between India and Israel.
