PM Modi Addresses Knesset on Israel Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a two-day state visit to Israel on February 25, aimed at strengthening the India-Israel strategic partnership.

This is his second visit to Israel after his historic 2017 trip, which elevated bilateral ties to a strategic level.

High-Level Meetings in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem

PM Modi was received at Tel Aviv airport by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife. The two leaders later held delegation-level talks focusing on defence, security, technology, trade and investment.

According to official statements, discussions covered cooperation in agriculture, water resource management, innovation and human capital development. Both sides also exchanged views on regional developments, including the situation in Gaza and broader West Asia.

PM Modi also met Israeli President Isaac Herzog, with talks expected to focus on diplomatic relations, parliamentary cooperation and global issues.

Address to the Knesset

A key highlight of the visit was PM Modi’s address to the Knesset, making him the first Indian Prime Minister to speak in Israel’s parliament.

Israeli lawmakers were seen welcoming him ahead of his speech. In his remarks, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu described India as a “gigantic power” and called the partnership between the two nations an important force multiplier.

Netanyahu also referred to the personal warmth between the two leaders, saying the relationship reflects strong ties between the people of both countries.

Defence and Strategic Cooperation

Defence cooperation is expected to remain a central pillar of the India-Israel partnership. Discussions reportedly included India’s indigenous air defence project “Sudarshan Chakra” and possible collaboration with Israel’s Iron Dome system.

Officials indicated that both countries are reviewing ongoing military partnerships and exploring new opportunities in security cooperation.

Economic and Innovation Focus

Trade and investment featured prominently during the talks. Negotiations on a proposed Free Trade Agreement and implementation of a bilateral investment agreement were discussed.

PM Modi is also scheduled to participate in an innovation-focused event in Jerusalem. Cooperation in startups, technology development and research partnerships is expected to be strengthened.

Political Reactions in India

Meanwhile, several opposition leaders in India commented on the visit.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the Prime Minister over the India-US trade deal and questioned the timing of the Israel visit. In separate statements, other opposition leaders raised concerns regarding regional issues, including the situation in Gaza.

The ruling party has not issued a detailed response to these remarks at the time of reporting.

Looking Ahead

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu described the visit as “historic” and spoke about a broader vision of cooperation among India, Arab nations, African countries and Mediterranean states. While this concept remains a proposal, discussions during the visit may include perspectives on regional stability and diplomatic coordination.

Officials from both countries have indicated that the visit aims to set new goals for the strategic partnership, deepen economic engagement and strengthen people-to-people connections.

As India and Israel mark nearly three decades of full diplomatic relations, this visit is expected to further consolidate cooperation in defence, technology, trade and regional diplomacy.