Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Israel in late February 2026, following a formal invitation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This trip aims to deepen the strategic partnership between India and Israel in defense, technology, and counter-terrorism.
Visit Details and Timeline
The visit is tentatively scheduled for February 27-28, marking Modi’s first trip to Israel in nearly nine years and during his third term as PM. Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, confirmed preparations are underway after Netanyahu’s invitation, expressing hope for an early visit amid geopolitical shifts in West Asia. Diplomatic sources note that final dates depend on schedules and security, but February aligns with recent high-level exchanges.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
India and Israel share growing ties in defense cooperation, semiconductors, agriculture, water management, and innovation. Recent visits by Indian ministers like S. Jaishankar and Piyush Goyal underscore momentum in trade, security, and counter-terrorism. Modi and Netanyahu recently discussed regional issues like Gaza and reaffirmed zero-tolerance for terrorism, with Netanyahu briefing on the Gaza Peace Plan.
Strategic Importance Amid Regional Tensions
The trip comes during intense West Asia churn, highlighting convergence on security and technology amid threats like terrorism. It could advance a free trade agreement and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor from the 2023 G20. India maintains a balanced policy, condemning terror while upholding humanitarian law in Gaza.
