Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Visits Israel, Meets Netanyahu – What’s the Purpose?

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, TEL AVIV – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Israel for a two-day visit, Wednesday (25/2/2026). This is his first visit since the war in Gaza began.

Modi is expected to address the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, and hold meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog. No meetings with Palestinian leaders are scheduled.

As reported by the BBC, the visit is taking place as both sides seek to strengthen ties in the areas of defence, technology, and trade – a relationship that has grown significantly since Modi came to power more than a decade ago.

However, analysts say the visit will also test India’s foreign policy as the country seeks to balance its relations with Israel and other Middle Eastern countries.

In 2017, Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. The visit was widely seen as a turning point in relations between the two countries.

The two countries have close cooperation in counter-terrorism and defence. India is also one of Israel’s largest arms buyers.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Modi’s visit “historic”.

“The bond between Israel and India is a powerful alliance between two global leaders. We are partners in innovation, security, and a shared strategic vision. Together, we are building an axis of countries committed to stability and progress,” he wrote on X.

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