What Awaits During PM Modi's Historic Visit to Israel? Insights into India-Israel Relations
PM Modi's Grand Arrival in Israel
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel, where he was warmly welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, at Ben Gurion Airport.
This marks Modi's second trip to Israel in nine years, following his initial visit in July 2017, which elevated the India-Israel relationship to a strategic partnership.
Netanyahu embraced Modi upon his arrival, and the Indian leader received a ceremonial welcome at the airport, situated 20 kilometers southeast of Tel Aviv.
Later in the day, Modi is scheduled to address the Knesset, Israel's parliament, and engage in a private meeting with Netanyahu. The two leaders are set to hold extensive discussions on Thursday.
In a statement before his departure, Modi expressed optimism that this visit would strengthen the long-standing ties between India and Israel and establish new objectives for their strategic partnership.
He emphasized the robust and diverse nature of the India-Israel partnership, which has seen significant growth and dynamism in recent years.
Modi looks forward to discussions with Netanyahu aimed at enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including science and technology, agriculture, water management, defense, trade, and cultural exchanges.
The leaders will also discuss regional and global issues of mutual concern.
Modi believes that this state visit will further solidify the enduring bonds between the two nations and advance their shared vision for a resilient and prosperous future.
The significance of this visit is heightened by the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly the strained relations between the US and Iran.
In recent years, India and Israel have seen a surge in cooperation, particularly in defense, scientific research, cybersecurity, and innovation.
Defense collaboration has become a crucial aspect of their partnership, with Israel supplying various military platforms and weapon systems to India.
An important defense cooperation agreement was signed during the visit of India's defense secretary to Israel last November.
Landed in Israel.
I am extremely honoured to be received by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Mrs. Netanyahu at the airport. I look forward to engaging in bilateral discussions and fruitful outcomes that strengthen the India-Israel friendship.@netanyahu pic.twitter.com/FYGDv0M3Xy
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 25, 2026
As India aims to develop its indigenous air defense system, known as 'Sudarshan Chakra,' there are discussions about integrating elements from Israel's Iron Dome, which is capable of intercepting missiles and artillery shells.
The trade and investment relationship between India and Israel is also progressing steadily.
During Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal's visit to Israel in November, the terms of reference for initiating Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations were established.
In September, both nations signed a Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) to enhance economic cooperation.
People-to-people connections are vital to the overall relationship, with a strong Indian diaspora of over 41,000 contributing significantly to bilateral engagement.