The Secret Behind Why Indian PM Narendra Modi is So Highly Regarded in Israel

TEL AVIV — When the Israeli Parliament (Knesset) presented an award to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in late February, the Indian leader appeared visibly moved and happy. This symbolic moment has since been revealed as the culmination of a series of major cooperation initiatives built over many years, far from the public eye.

Modi, who frequently describes himself as being born on the day India recognised the establishment of the State of Israel, has emerged in recent years as one of the world leaders closest to Tel Aviv. Even as many nations began to distance themselves from Israel due to the war in Gaza and the high civilian death toll, Modi instead strengthened ties with Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. This closeness has garnered support and praise from several Israeli political figures, including Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.

Under Modi’s leadership, India and Israel have signed various multi-billion dollar economic agreements spanning sectors such as trade, transport, technology, food, and healthcare. However, according to various recent reports and emerging documents, Israel’s profound respect for Modi does not stem solely from trade relations or investment. A recent report published by Amnesty International, as cited by Al Jazeera, reveals that India plays a crucial role in supplying weapons and ammunition to Israel during the ongoing war in Gaza. The report, titled ‘Made in India: Arming Israel’, highlights the close and mutually beneficial relationship between Indian companies and the Israeli military.