PM Modi acknowledges Benjamin Netanyahu’s warm tribute ahead of his February 2026 Israel visit, signaling stronger India-Israel strategic ties, defense cooperation, technology partnerships, and a shared commitment to regional stability and counter-terrorism collaboration.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has warmly acknowledged the personal tribute extended by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of his two-day visit to Israel, beginning February 25, 2026. The exchange of remarks has reinforced the deepening strategic partnership between India and Israel, two democracies increasingly aligned on defense, innovation, and regional security.
During a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, Netanyahu described Modi as a “dear friend” and characterized the upcoming visit as a milestone moment in bilateral relations. The Israeli leader highlighted the growing bond between the two nations and emphasized the significance of Modi’s presence at a time of evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.
Responding on his official X handle, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for the warm remarks, stating that India deeply values its enduring friendship with Israel. He described the partnership as one built on trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to peace and progress. Modi further noted that he looks forward to “meaningful discussions” aimed at expanding cooperation across critical sectors.
Netanyahu, whose comments were later shared online, framed the visit as historic. He outlined a broader vision of forming an “axis of nations” in the Middle East—an alliance of like-minded countries united against radical forces and committed to stability, security, and technological advancement. While the phrase carries strong geopolitical implications, it underscores Israel’s intent to consolidate partnerships with countries that share common democratic values and security concerns.
The visit’s agenda reflects the depth and maturity of India-Israel relations. Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to address the Knesset, marking a significant diplomatic gesture. He will also join Netanyahu at Yad Vashem, Israel’s official memorial to Holocaust victims, symbolizing solidarity and historical remembrance.
In addition, Modi will participate in a high-tech innovation event highlighting collaboration in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and emerging technologies. Over the past decade, India and Israel have strengthened ties in cutting-edge research, cybersecurity, water management, and agricultural innovation, areas that have directly benefited both nations.
This will be Modi’s second visit to Israel, following his groundbreaking 2017 trip—the first by an Indian prime minister—which opened new avenues in defense cooperation and strategic engagement. Netanyahu’s reciprocal visit to India in 2018 further cemented the bilateral relationship, elevating it to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Modi’s upcoming visit signals India’s strategic recalibration and its convergence with Israel on counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and defense modernization. Analysts view the engagement as part of India’s broader foreign policy approach that balances relations across the region while strengthening partnerships with key allies.
While some opposition voices in Israel have raised procedural concerns regarding Modi’s address to the Knesset, the broader diplomatic narrative remains one of deepening cooperation. Both leaders have frequently exchanged visits and communications, with Netanyahu describing Modi not only as a strategic partner but also as a personal friend.
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As geopolitical alignments continue to shift, the India-Israel relationship appears poised for further expansion. The upcoming visit is expected to reinforce what Netanyahu has termed a “tremendous alliance” rooted in shared democratic values, mutual respect, and common strategic goals. For both nations, the engagement represents not merely symbolism but a forward-looking commitment to security, innovation, and global partnership.
