Netanyahu Proposes New Strategic Alliance Framework in West Asia

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has unveiled a new strategic framework termed the 'hexagon of alliances' in West Asia, with India at its core. This initiative comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his visit to Israel, amidst rising tensions in the region. The proposed alliance aims to counter radical threats and foster cooperation among nations sharing similar goals. Netanyahu's vision includes collaboration with various countries, including Arab and Mediterranean nations, signaling a shift towards a more structured security architecture. This development could reshape the geopolitical landscape in West Asia, emphasizing the importance of formalized alliances in addressing regional challenges.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 25, 2026, 11:39 IST

Introduction to the Hexagon of Alliances

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his upcoming trip to Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has introduced a concept that could reshape alliances in West Asia—a "hexagon of alliances" with India positioned at its core. This announcement, made on February 22 by Israel's foreign office, emerges amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran. Concurrently, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have formalized a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA), often referred to as an 'Islamic NATO', with Turkey expressing interest in joining.

Details of the Hexagon

During a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu articulated his vision for this new alliance structure, stating, "We aim to establish a comprehensive system, essentially a 'hexagon' of alliances encompassing the Middle East. This will involve India, Arab nations, African nations, and Mediterranean countries like Greece and Cyprus, along with other Asian nations that will be detailed later." He emphasized the need for collaboration among nations that share common views on regional challenges and threats.

Identifying Adversaries

Netanyahu clearly identified the adversaries of this alliance, aiming to counter what he termed the "radical axes". He referred to the "radical Shia axis", which includes Iran and its affiliates such as Hamas and Hezbollah, and the "emerging radical Sunni axis", which encompasses various extremist groups and terror threats in the region.

Significance of the Hexagon

This initiative by Netanyahu signifies a move beyond informal collaborations. While India, the UAE, and Israel have previously engaged through frameworks like the Abraham Accords and the I2U2 grouping, the proposal of a structured security architecture marks a significant development. The concept of a "hexagon of alliances" suggests a potential for institutionalized cooperation in areas such as security, intelligence sharing, and defense.