India-Israel axis: What are the IMEC corridor, I2U2 grouping Modi spoke of?
Al Jazeera
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the Israeli Knesset during his visit to Israel highlighted the deepening ties between India and Israel, with a focus on multilateral initiatives aimed at fostering economic cooperation and regional stability. Modi emphasized India and Israel as "trusted partners" and underscored their commitment to expanding trade, investment, and infrastructure development. He also highlighted two key collaborative projects: the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the I2U2 grouping.
The IMEC project, announced during the G20 summit in New Delhi in September 2023, is a ambitious infrastructure initiative designed to create an integrated rail and shipping network connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe. This corridor would pass through countries including India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe, aiming to facilitate trade and economic cooperation while promoting sustainable development.
The I2U2 grouping, established in 2022, brings together India, Israel, the UAE, and the United States to address global challenges such as water scarcity, energy security, transportation, space exploration, health, and food security. The initiative focuses on advancing low-carbon development, modernizing infrastructure, and improving public health through collaborative projects like hybrid renewable energy initiatives in India and food security programs.
Modi’s speech comes at a critical time, as Israel faces ongoing tensions with Hamas and regional instability. By strengthening ties with India and other partners through these multilateral frameworks, Israel aims to enhance its strategic position and economic prospects. The growing partnership between India and Israel is seen as a significant shift from India's past alignment with the Palestinian cause under British rule, reflecting evolving geopolitical dynamics in the region.
The significance of Modi’s address lies in its potential to reshape regional cooperation and economic integration, aligning with both India’s strategic interests and its role as a global partner. These initiatives not only boost India-Israel relations but also position them as key players in addressing global challenges, offering a template for multilateral collaboration in infrastructure, technology, and sustainable development.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/26/2026