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Modi's visit to Israel tests India's strengths in the Middle East

2026-02-25 13:07:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Israel for a two-day visit, his first since the start of the Gaza war. Modi is expected to address the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, and hold meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog. There is no meeting with Palestinian leaders on his agenda.

The visit comes as the two countries aim to strengthen ties in defense, technology and trade, a relationship that has grown significantly since Modi came to power more than a decade ago. However, analysts say the visit will also test India's foreign policy as it tries to balance its ties with Israel and other Middle Eastern countries.

In 2017, Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. The trip was widely seen as a turning point in relations. The two countries work closely on counterterrorism and defense. India is also among the largest buyers of Israeli weapons.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called Modi's visit historic.

"The relationship between Israel and India is a powerful alliance between two global leaders. We are partners in innovation, security, and a shared strategic vision. Together, we are building an axis of nations committed to stability and progress," he wrote in X.

Modi also responded by saying that India deeply values ??the enduring friendship with Israel, built on trust, innovation and a shared commitment to peace and progress.

Foreign affairs expert Harsh V Pant said India wants to show that it remains committed to its partnership with Israel while trying to balance its priorities in the Middle East.

India has condemned the deadly Hamas-led attacks on October 7 and expressed solidarity with Israel, while expressing concern over civilian casualties in Gaza and reiterating its support for a two-state solution.

However, the visit comes at a time of high regional tensions. A key concern is US President Donald Trump's threat of military action against Iran and fears that any escalation could trigger a wider regional conflict./CNA, translated by BBC