Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Israel for a two-day visit, his first since the war in Gaza began, his first since the outbreak of war in Gaza.
The visit underscores the strengthening of India-Israel ties in defense, technology, and trade, with both leaders emphasizing their strategic partnership.
Modi's schedule includes addressing the Knesset, meetings with Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog, and visits to Jerusalem. Notably absent from his itinerary are meetings with Palestinian leaders, reflecting the complex geopolitical landscape.
During the visit, Modi is scheduled to address Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, and hold talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog. No meetings with Palestinian leaders are currently on his itinerary.
The trip builds on growing bilateral ties that have strengthened significantly since Modi took office more than a decade ago. In 2017, he became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel a landmark moment widely seen as a turning point in relations.
India and Israel maintain close cooperation in counter-terrorism and defence, with India ranking among the largest purchasers of Israeli military equipment. The two countries have also expanded collaboration in innovation, agriculture, water management and cybersecurity.
Netanyahu described the visit as “historic,” calling the relationship a “powerful alliance between two global leaders” and highlighting shared priorities in security and technological advancement.
Modi echoed those sentiments, saying India “deeply values the enduring friendship with Israel, built on trust, innovation and a shared commitment to peace and progress.”
India has condemned the deadly Hamas-led attacks on 7 October and expressed solidarity with Israel, while also voicing concern over civilian casualties in Gaza and reaffirming its support for a two-state solution.
The visit comes amid heightened regional tensions. A major concern is US President Donald Trump’s threat of military action against Iran, raising fears that any escalation could spark a broader conflict in the region.
In recent weeks, the US has significantly reinforced its military presence in the area, marking one of the largest deployments in decades, aimed at pressuring Iran to curb its nuclear program.
India’s approach aligns with its longstanding ties with Iran and other countries in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Modi will meet his Israeli counterpart shortly after arriving in Tel Aviv, before proceeding to Jerusalem for the remainder of his engagements.
Ahead of the visit, the Knesset was illuminated in the colors of the Indian flag, a moment Modi shared on social media, expressing his anticipation for addressing lawmakers on Wednesday.
However, his upcoming speech has sparked political controversy in Israel. The opposition has threatened to boycott Modi’s address unless Supreme Court President Isaac Amit is invited—a decision tied to an ongoing dispute over judicial reforms. Reports suggest the Speaker of the parliament may invite former lawmakers to occupy any empty seats.
Back in India, opposition leaders have also voiced criticism of the visit.
