India and Israel pledge to boost ties in defence and technology

During a two-day visit to Israel, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to deepen cooperation in defense, artificial intelligence, and other sectors. The leaders announced they would pursue a free trade agreement and elevated their partnership to a "Special Strategic Partnership." Over a dozen bilateral agreements were concluded, covering cybersecurity, trade, space exploration, education, and agriculture. Israel also pledged to allow 50,000 more Indian workers into the country, and India will extend its UPI digital payment system to Israel. Modi condemned the October 2023 Hamas attack and reiterated India's support for a two-state solution, while also voicing concern over civilian casualties in Gaza. The visit, Modi's second since 2017, has been described as productive but has also drawn criticism in India.

In February 2026, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a controversial two-day visit to Israel, where he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged increased cooperation on trade and defense. The two countries aim to finalize a free trade agreement and collaborate on technologies like AI and cybersecurity, signing over a dozen bilateral agreements. Israel also agreed to allow 50,000 more Indian nationals into the country for construction and caregiving jobs. Modi's visit, his second since 2014, signals a deepening strategic relationship despite criticism at home due to tensions surrounding Israel's war on Gaza. The leaders' joint statement referenced the Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023 and an attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir in April 2025, highlighting their shared security concerns.

In February 2026, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a two-day visit to Israel, meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and solidifying the increasingly strong relationship between the two nations. This was the second visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel, the first being in 2017. Modi addressed the Knesset, receiving a standing ovation and affirming India's support for Israel, particularly after the Hamas attacks. Discussions and agreements focused on strengthening bilateral ties in areas like innovation and agriculture. Notably, Modi's visit included no mention of the ongoing conflict in Gaza or the Palestinian territories, despite India's historical support for the Palestinian cause. Relations between India and Israel have grown significantly since Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, particularly in defense.

Narendra Modi, India's Prime Minister, is making his second visit to Israel on February 25, 2026. This visit highlights the strengthened relationship between the two countries under Modi's leadership. During the trip, Modi is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss further cooperation between Israel and India. Netanyahu's office emphasized the strong alliance between the two nations. Modi is also expected to address the Knesset, Israel's parliament, during his visit. The trip aims to build upon the already deepened ties between India and Israel.

In February 2026, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Public opinion in India regarding this visit is divided. Some individuals express opposition, citing concerns about supporting a country they accuse of committing genocide. The news report highlights this division in public sentiment surrounding Modi's trip to Israel. The purpose of the visit and specific details of the agenda were not provided in the article.