Modi to Visit Israel: Netanyahu Confirms Innovation & Security Focus

New Delhi and Jerusalem are solidifying ties as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Israel on Wednesday, confirmed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday.

During a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu announced Modi will address the Knesset, participate in an innovation event in Jerusalem, and visit Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust memorial. He emphasized the significance of the visit, stating it will focus on the “special relationship” forged between Israel and India in recent years.

Netanyahu described Modi as a “personal friend,” noting frequent phone conversations and reciprocal visits. “We waded together in the waters of the Mediterranean, and much water has flowed since then in the Mediterranean, the Ganges, and the Jordan,” he said, alluding to a previous meeting between the two leaders.

The two nations will prioritize cooperation in high-tech sectors, including artificial intelligence and quantum computing, with Netanyahu stating Israel aims to be a global leader in these fields. The visit comes as Israel seeks to build a broader network of alliances in the Middle East, according to Netanyahu.

Netanyahu outlined a vision for a “hexagon” of alliances encompassing India, Arab nations, African countries, Mediterranean nations like Greece and Cyprus, and other Asian countries. This network, he explained, is intended to counter “radical axes,” specifically identifying both Shia and Sunni extremist groups. “Creating an axis of nations that observe eye-to-eye on the reality, challenges, and goals against the radical axes,” he stated.

Modi responded to Netanyahu’s announcement on X, formerly Twitter, expressing agreement on the strength of the bilateral relationship. “India deeply values the enduring friendship with Israel, built on trust, innovation and a shared commitment to peace and progress,” Modi wrote. He added he looked forward to discussions during his upcoming visit.

The planned visit underscores a growing strategic alignment between India and Israel, particularly in defense and technology. According to the Middle East Forum, the relationship has deepened significantly in recent years, moving beyond historical constraints.