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Modi concludes Israel visit with pledge to deepen defence and AI cooperation
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up a two-day trip to Israel on Thursday, announcing plans to strengthen collaboration in defence, artificial intelligence, and digital payments while upgrading bilateral relations to a Special Strategic Partnership.
Key agreements and trade commitments
In a joint statement with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Modi confirmed both nations would pursue a free trade agreement and finalized over a dozen deals spanning cybersecurity, space exploration, education, agriculture, and economic cooperation.
Israel also committed to admitting 50,000 Indian workers over the next five years, while India announced plans to extend its Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to Israel, enhancing digital finance ties.
Diplomatic gestures and regional balancing
Modi visited Yad Vashem, Israel's Holocaust memorial, and addressed the Knesset, where he condemned the October 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel while reiterating India's support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
"We feel your pain. We share your grief. India stands with Israel, firmly, with full conviction, in this moment, and beyond."
Narendra Modi, addressing the Knesset
The leaders also "unequivocally condemned terrorism" in their joint statement and praised former U.S. President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan, with Modi calling it a "path to peace".
Domestic criticism and strategic context
Modi's visit drew backlash from India's opposition Congress party, which accused the government of "abandoning the Palestinian cause". However, analysts argue the trip aligns with India's long-term interests in the Middle East.
"This visit is largely driven by bilateral requirements, but regional stability remains critically important for India's broader strategic goals."
Kabir Taneja, Observer Research Foundation
Broader implications for India's foreign policy
The trip marks Modi's second to Israel since 2017 and reflects India's efforts to balance ties with Israel and other Middle Eastern nations. While India has historically supported Palestinian statehood, its growing defence and technology partnerships with Israel underscore shifting priorities.
