'Global power that is India': Benjamin Netanyahu's message ahead of PM Modi's Israel visit
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 22, 2026
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lauded India as a "global power" ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Israel, scheduled for next week. In a statement on X, Netanyahu highlighted the deepening special relationship between the two nations, emphasizing their shared values and strategic collaboration across economic, diplomatic, and security spheres. He also expressed personal friendship with Modi, recalling past visits and mutual exchanges.
Netanyahu underscored India's rising influence on the global stage and its role in fostering stability in the Middle East and beyond. He described a vision for a regional "hexagon" of alliances, including India, Arab nations, and others, aimed at countering radical groups. This initiative reflects Israel's broader strategy to strengthen ties with like-minded countries, particularly in areas of innovation, AI, and quantum computing.
The visit is expected to cement cooperation in high-tech sectors, aligning with both nations' commitments to technological advancement. Netanyahu also mentioned Modi's speech at the Israeli Parliament (Knesset) and joint events, including a visit to Yad Vashem, underscoring the symbolic and practical dimensions of their partnership. This builds on Modi's landmark 2017 trip, marking a new chapter in India-Israel relations.
The summit comes amid global efforts to address regional tensions, with Netanyahu referencing US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace initiative. While initially focused on Gaza, the initiative has expanded to include over 35 nations, reflecting Israel's broader外交 strategy. Fluss, Israel's former Ambassador and innovation coordinator, emphasized bilateral cooperation in emerging technologies during a recent AI summit in New Delhi.
Ultimately, Netanyahu's remarks reflect Israel's strategic pivot toward India as a key partner in shaping regional and global affairs. The visit is not just about strengthening bilateral ties but also about positioning both nations at the forefront of innovation and resilience against shared challenges,
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/22/2026