India’s Modi visits Israel: What’s on the agenda, and why it matters
Al Jazeera
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a two-day visit to Israel, marking his second trip to the country since becoming prime minister in 2014. While India historically opposed Israel's creation in 1948 and remained critical of its policies toward Palestinians for decades, relations between the two nations have significantly warmed under Modi's leadership. This visit aims to further strengthen strategic economic and defense ties, with a focus on modernizing bilateral agreements.
Modi’s agenda includes meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a address to the Knesset in Jerusalem, and visits to key sites like Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial. The discussions are expected to center around innovation, cybersecurity, AI, and quantum technologies, areas where Israel excels. Both leaders have emphasized the complementary nature of their relationship, with Modi highlighting how India’s infrastructure and market can complement Israel's technological expertise.
The visit also signals an effort to upgrade existing security agreements and explore new investment opportunities. A bilateral investment treaty signed in September 2023 replaced the 1996 agreement, offering greater certainty for investors. Additionally, plans to negotiate a free trade deal and deepen defense cooperation are on the table, reflecting Israel's desire to attract Indian infrastructure companies.
This visit matters because it underscores the growing strategic partnership between India and Israel, particularly in areas like technology and security. It also highlights how both nations are leveraging their unique strengths to foster economic growth and regional stability. As tensions rise in the Middle East, this collaboration could play a crucial role in shaping the region's future.
Ultimately, Modi’s visit not only strengthens bilateral ties but also positions India and Israel as key players in global innovation and security. Their partnership is likely to have far-reaching implications for both countries and the broader international community.
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/25/2026