PM Modi in Israel for key talks with Netanyahu, focus on defence and trade cooperation
PTC Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel on Wednesday for a high-level visit, receiving a ceremonial welcome at Ben Gurion Airport from his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara.
This is PM Modi’s second visit to Israel since 2017, when bilateral relations were upgraded to a strategic partnership. The latest trip is being viewed as an important diplomatic engagement amid shifting geopolitical currents in the Middle East.
Welcome to Israel my dear friend @narendramodi ???????????????????? pic.twitter.com/AnRtceD9Ci
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) February 25, 2026
Soon after landing near Tel Aviv, the Indian Prime Minister was accorded full ceremonial honours. He is scheduled to address the Israeli Parliament and hold restricted as well as delegation-level talks with Netanyahu. The discussions are expected to cover defence collaboration, technology partnerships, economic ties and regional security developments.
Ahead of his departure, PM Modi described the India-Israel relationship as strong and multi-dimensional, noting that cooperation has expanded steadily across sectors. He emphasised that science and technology, agriculture, water management, innovation, defence, trade and investment will remain key focus areas during his meetings.
Defence cooperation continues to form a crucial pillar of the partnership. Israel has supplied advanced military platforms and systems to India over the years. Officials in New Delhi are also examining elements of Israel’s Iron Dome as India works on developing its indigenous air defence architecture, often referred to as “Sudarshan Chakra.”
Economic engagement has also gathered pace. During Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s recent visit to Israel, both countries finalised the terms of reference to begin negotiations on a proposed Free Trade Agreement. A Bilateral Investment Agreement was signed earlier to boost investor confidence and expand business opportunities.
The visit comes at a sensitive time for the region, with tensions simmering between the United States and Iran, among other developments. Analysts believe the dialogue between the two leaders could help reinforce strategic coordination in a volatile environment.
Apart from government-level cooperation, people-to-people links remain robust. The Indian community in Israel, estimated at over 41,000, continues to serve as a bridge between the two nations.
Modi’s engagements during the visit are expected to define the next phase of India-Israel relations, with a renewed push towards deeper strategic, economic and technological collaboration.
- With inputs from agencies
