Indian PM Modi Begins Historic Two-Day State Visit to Israel

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi left New Delhi on February 25 for a state visit to Israel that runs through February 26, marking only his second trip to the country after his landmark 2017 visit. The two-day mission comes at the invitation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and underscores deepening diplomatic and strategic ties between the two democracies.

Top officials say that India and Israel will elevate their relationship to a “special strategic partnership” during the visit a step seen as a major leap in cooperation that parallels ties Jerusalem has with nations such as the United States and Germany. This upgraded framework is expected to foster joint development of advanced defence systems and formal commitments on mutual support.

Modi and Netanyahu are slated to review the progress of the India–Israel strategic partnership and explore cooperation across varied domains including defence, innovation, science & technology, agriculture, water management, trade, and people-to-people ties. Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening security collaboration, expanding economic links, and pushing forward technological ventures such as AI, cybersecurity, and quantum computing.

A defining moment of the visit will be Modi’s address to the Israeli Parliament (Knesset), where he will become the first Indian premier to speak before the house. The itinerary also includes a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and engagements with Indian diaspora communities in Jerusalem.

The visit coincides with the first round of negotiations for a proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and Israel. Officials believe that an FTA could enhance trade predictability and boost ties across key industries, including technology, agriculture, and services. Modi’s visit thus dovetails with economic as well as strategic talks.

In India, voices from across the political spectrum have urged the prime minister to address broader challenges in the region. For instance, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra publicly appealed that Modi raise humanitarian concerns related to the Israel–Gaza conflict during his engagement in Jerusalem.

Meanwhile, ahead of the official visit, Israel’s parliament building was illuminated in the colours of the Indian tricolour, reflecting a warm diplomatic reception and signalling warmth in bilateral relations.

Photo Credit: X/@narendramodi