Strengthening India-Israel Ties: EAM Jaishankar's Diplomatic Visit

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's recent visit to Israel marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations. Engaging with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in technology, economy, and security. Jaishankar also condemned a recent terrorist attack in Sydney, reaffirming the shared commitment of both nations to a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. This visit comes at a crucial time as preparations for Netanyahu's upcoming trip to India are underway, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two countries. Read on to discover more about the key discussions and future collaborations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 17, 2025, 10:45 IST

EAM Jaishankar Meets Israeli PM Netanyahu

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, focusing on enhancing collaboration in technology, economy, connectivity, and security. Both leaders expressed confidence that the strategic partnership between India and Israel would become even more robust.

Jaishankar arrived in Israel on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, for a two-day visit. During his trip, he also met with President Isaac Herzog and held talks with his Israeli counterpart, Gidon Saar, as well as Economy and Industry Minister Nir Barkat.

Details of Jaishankar's Visit

On his two-day visit to Israel, Jaishankar met with President Herzog and engaged in discussions with Gidon Saar and Nir Barkat. Later that day, he had a meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Jaishankar expressed his pleasure at meeting Netanyahu in Jerusalem via the social media platform X.

He conveyed warm wishes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed deepening cooperation in technology, economy, skills, connectivity, and security. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of Netanyahu's insights on regional and global events, expressing confidence in the strengthening of their strategic partnership. Netanyahu shared images from their meeting on social media.

Timing of the Visit

Jaishankar's visit coincides with preparations for Netanyahu's upcoming trip to India. Recently, the two leaders had a phone conversation, after which Netanyahu indicated that they would meet 'very soon.' Jaishankar arrived in Tel Aviv from Abu Dhabi, where he participated in the prestigious Sir Bani Yas Forum and attended the 16th meeting of the India-UAE Joint Commission on December 15.

Shared Commitment to Zero-Tolerance Against Terrorism

During his visit, Jaishankar condemned the recent terrorist attack during the Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, highlighting the shared 'zero-tolerance' policy against terrorism held by both India and Israel.

He expressed his heartfelt condolences for the loss of life in the attack and firmly denounced the act. Jaishankar also thanked Israel for its support in India's fight against terrorism, stating, 'Both India and Israel are nations that uphold a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. We appreciate your continued support in our battle against all forms and manifestations of terrorism.'

Earlier this year, Israeli ministers, including Tourism Minister Haim Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, visited India as both nations accelerated efforts towards a free trade agreement (FTA).