Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s February 25-26 Israel trip—his second since 2017—bolsters defence-tech ties with Netanyahu but navigates choppy waters from Trump’s Iran strike threats, Gaza fallout, and Arab outreach strains.
Defence and Innovation Focus
Modi addresses Knesset (first Indian leader), co-chairs innovation summit, visits Yad Vashem, and inks deals on AI, quantum, drones, Iron Dome co-production, Arrow/David’s Sling missiles—elevating buyer-seller to co-development for Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Netanyahu pitches India for “Hexagon of Alliances” (Israel-Greece-Cyprus-Arabs-Africa) countering “radical Shia axis,” advancing IMEC corridor.
Headwinds and Balancing Act
Timing coincides with Trump weighing Iran strikes; Modi-Netanyahu huddle amid two US carriers nearby risks signalling alignment, irking Riyadh/Doha despite recent Arab FM meets. Opposition warns of Palestine backlash; Chellaney calls it “calculated signal” of India’s stakeholder status despite volatility.
Israel’s judicial crisis adds domestic drama—opposition boycotts Knesset over court exclusions.
India’s Quad Edge
Visit reaffirms strategic partnership amid China threats, but tests multi-alignment. For Kerala roots like you, it spotlights diaspora/tech links boosting God’s Own Country’s global profile.
Modi’s m
