Modi begins official Israel trip, key talks to cover defence and commerce

During his two-day visit to Israel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to elevate India-Israel ties to a “special strategic partnership”, marking a major advancement in bilateral relations comparable to Israel’s ties with countries such as the US and Germany, according to sources.

This trip, which begins on Wednesday, focuses on strengthening defence and trade cooperation. It is PM Modi’s second visit to Israel in nine years, following his first visit in July 2017 when the relationship was upgraded to a strategic partnership. The new “special strategic partnership” is expected to foster joint development of advanced defence systems and formalize a mutual understanding to support each other during critical situations.

Sources noted that the two nations have demonstrated reliability over the years, particularly in times of crises, and PM Modi’s visit will formally recognize this trust.

Upon arrival, PM Modi will be welcomed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara, followed by a one-on-one meeting. He will then proceed to Jerusalem, where he will meet members of the Indian community and address lawmakers at the Knesset, a rare honour extended to select world leaders.

The itinerary also includes attending a technology exhibition on Wednesday evening with Israeli industry leaders, a private dinner hosted by Netanyahu, and a visit to Yad Vashem on Thursday to pay respects to Holocaust victims. PM Modi will subsequently meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

Several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed during the visit, notably in defence and cutting-edge technologies such as AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. Sources also mentioned the establishment of a confidentiality mechanism to enable cooperation in sensitive areas like air defence systems, including India’s potential integration into Israel’s Or Eitan laser-based air defence network.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi highlighted that the visit will reaffirm the enduring strategic partnership between the two democracies, allowing both nations to address common challenges and align efforts for a stronger bilateral relationship. Over recent years, ties between India and Israel have deepened in sectors including defence, scientific research, cybersecurity, and innovation, with Israel supplying a wide range of military platforms and technologies to India.