Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed India as a “global power” and PM Narendra Modi as a “personal friend” while unveiling a visionary “hexagon of alliances” encompassing India, Arab nations, African countries, Mediterranean partners like Greece and Cyprus, and select Asian states.
Strategic Framework Ahead of Modi’s Visit
Speaking at his weekly cabinet meeting on February 22, 2026, Netanyahu timed the announcement for Modi’s upcoming February 25-26 Israel visit, emphasizing deepened economic, diplomatic, and security ties. The framework builds on IMEC connectivity, featuring joint innovation events and Yad Vashem visits.
Counterweight to Regional Threats
The hexagon targets the “radical Shia axis” (Iran-led) and “emerging radical Sunni axis,” fostering resilience via aligned nations sharing perceptions on challenges and goals. Netanyahu stressed tightening Israel-India bonds through high-level decisions during the trip.
Modi-Netanyahu Personal Rapport
Frequent calls and mutual visits underpin the partnership, with bilateral trade at $10 billion+ fueled by defense, counterterrorism, and tech collaboration. This positions India centrally in Israel’s Middle East stabilization strategy.
