Middle East

As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his second visit to Israel on February 25, 2026, the evolving relationship between India and Israel reflects a significant shift in diplomatic dynamics. Modi’s first visit to Israel in July 2017 marked a historic moment as he became the first Indian prime minister to travel to the country, initiating a new chapter in bilateral ties that had been largely clandestine and frowned upon in India.

Upon his arrival in Tel Aviv in 2017, Modi described his visit as a “path-breaking journey.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed him warmly, recalling their first meeting in 2014 where they agreed to dismantle the barriers between their nations. Analysts suggest that Modi’s upcoming trip further exemplifies this commitment, as India has transitioned into a more public friendship with Israel, with Modi frequently referring to Netanyahu as a “dear friend.” This relationship continues despite the International Criminal Court issuing an arrest warrant for Netanyahu in late 2024 over alleged war crimes amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

India’s shift towards Israel has been characterized as a “pragmatic approach,” wherein Indian officials argue that Israel’s technological and military capabilities are too significant to overlook. This pivot is also seen as a balancing act, as New Delhi strives to maintain its relations with Arab allies. Although, this realignment has raised concerns regarding India’s long-standing support for Palestine, with some analysts arguing that the change has arrive at the cost of India’s moral standing in international affairs.

The Cost of Realpolitik

Critics of Modi’s foreign policy argue that India’s “realist turn” has diminished its moral authority, particularly in the Global South. Anwar Alam, a senior fellow at the Policy Perspectives Foundation in New Delhi, stated that Modi’s upcoming visit could be interpreted as legitimizing what he described as an “apartheid Israeli state.” This sentiment resonates amid ongoing conflicts in Palestinian territories, where the humanitarian crisis has escalated.

Historically, India was a staunch advocate for Palestinian independence. In 1947, India opposed the UN’s partition plan for Palestine, and in 1988, it was among the first non-Arab countries to recognize Palestine. However, following the end of the Cold War, India recalibrated its foreign policy, establishing diplomatic relations with Israel in 1992. Since then, defense ties have formed the backbone of this relationship.

The Modi-Netanyahu Connection

Modi’s rise to power in 2014 catalyzed a notable shift in India-Israel relations. The ideology of Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which emphasizes a Hindu nationalist vision, resonates with Israel’s self-identification as a Jewish homeland. Both governments view “Islamic terrorism” as a primary threat, a perspective that critics argue justifies broader anti-Muslim policies.

Under Modi, India has grow Israel’s largest buyer of military equipment. Reports indicate that in 2024, as Israel intensified its military campaign in Gaza, Indian arms manufacturers supplied rockets and explosives to Israel. This burgeoning defense cooperation was highlighted by a recent memorandum of understanding aimed at developing anti-ballistic missile systems ahead of Modi’s upcoming visit.

Modi is set to address the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, a move that underscores the deepening ties under the BJP’s pro-Israel policy. Max Rodenbeck, a project director at the Crisis Group, noted that this address symbolizes the extent of the shift in relations and serves to bolster Netanyahu’s image as he approaches a crucial national election.

A Strategic Partnership Amidst Global Isolation

As the Israeli government faces increasing isolation due to its actions in Gaza, Modi’s visit is significant. With few leaders from the Global South willing to engage with Israel since the conflict escalated, India’s decision to strengthen ties sends a powerful message. Kabir Taneja from the Observer Research Foundation remarked that Israel currently has limited friends on the global stage, making India’s role pivotal.

The economic relationship between India and Israel has flourished since Modi took office, with trade growing from approximately $200 million in 1992 to over $6 billion by 2024. This partnership encompasses a variety of sectors, including defense, technology, and agriculture. Following a ban on Palestinian workers in Israel after a Hamas-led attack in October 2023, thousands of Indian laborers have sought employment in Israeli construction.

Despite the increasingly robust ties with Israel, Modi’s government has not abandoned its stance on Palestine entirely. India continues to advocate for a two-state solution and dialogues for peace, although it has become increasingly reticent about criticizing Israel’s military actions.

Looking Ahead: Implications for India and the Region

As Modi embarks on this pivotal visit, the implications for regional politics are significant. The relationship between India and Israel could reshape dynamics in the Middle East, particularly as India seeks to navigate its alliances with both Israel and Arab nations. Observers speculate that India may be positioning itself to leverage its friendship with Israel to gain favor with influential actors in Washington, a move that could prove crucial in the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Modi’s forthcoming visit to Israel is not merely a diplomatic formality; it represents a profound transformation in India’s foreign policy and its historical stance on Palestine. As the world watches, the ramifications of this relationship will undoubtedly unfold in the coming months, prompting discussion on the balance between pragmatism and moral responsibility in international relations.

We invite readers to share their thoughts on the evolving India-Israel relationship and its implications for global diplomacy.