Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day official visit to Israel began with the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, illuminated in the colors of the Indian tricolour in his honour. The visit is being viewed as a step toward advancing the bilateral relationship to a Special Strategic Partnership.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to receive Prime Minister Modi at the airport. According to official information, Netanyahu and his wife Sara will welcome him, followed by a formal reception. A one-to-one meeting between the two leaders will take place, after which delegation-level talks will be held.
Former Israeli Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition Yair Lapid posted a message in Hindi on social media platform X welcoming Prime Minister Modi. He stated that all of Israel was excited to welcome the Indian Prime Minister and described the relationship between India and Israel as not only strategic but also a bond of deep friendship.
The Knesset was illuminated in the colors of the Indian tricolour as a mark of respect. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana shared photographs on social media, describing the gesture as a symbolic tribute to the strengthening partnership between India and Israel. While the two countries have previously demonstrated public gestures of mutual respect, this event has been linked to the formal expansion of their Special Strategic Partnership.
Sources indicated that during the visit, India and Israel are expected to elevate their ties to a Special Strategic Partnership. The proposed upgrade is expected to deepen cooperation in defence, technology, cyber security, agriculture, water management and trade. The move is being described as aligning Israel’s relationship with India on the lines of its ties with countries such as the United States and Germany.
Under the proposed framework, joint development of advanced defence systems and formal understandings to support each other in times of need are expected to be institutionalised.
Prime Minister Modi previously visited Israel in July 2017, when bilateral ties were elevated to a Strategic Partnership. Nine years later, the current visit is expected to further advance the relationship.
India and Israel have worked as partners in defence and technology for several years, maintaining cooperation during periods of crisis. The present visit is aimed at formalising and strengthening that engagement.
In Jerusalem, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to meet members of the Indian community and address the Knesset. Addressing the Knesset is regarded as a special honour for a foreign leader.
Later in the day, Prime Minister Modi will attend a technology exhibition showcasing Israel’s innovation and startup ecosystem. In the evening, Prime Minister Netanyahu will host a private dinner in his honour.
The visit is focused on strengthening defence and trade cooperation. India and Israel are already collaborating in defence equipment, missile systems, drone technology and cyber security. Bilateral trade has recorded continued growth in exports and investment. The elevation of ties is also expected to accelerate discussions on a Free Trade Agreement.
