Modi Visits Israel: Expresses Condolences & Seeks Trade Deal

Jerusalem – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a two-day political visit to Israel on Wednesday, participating in a special session held in his honor at the Knesset. Addressing the plenary of the Knesset in the presence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Modi stated, “I am delighted to be in Israel… I was born on the same day that India recognized Israel, on September 17, 1950,” according to Russian state news agency Youm7.

The Indian Prime Minister expressed his condolences to Israel for the victims of the October 7th attack, stating, “India stands with you firmly and with full conviction,” emphasizing his country’s support during what he described as “difficult times.”

Modi Expresses Condolences for Victims of October 7th Attack

Modi also highlighted Israel as “a powerhouse of innovation,” noting that working groups from both countries are in negotiations to reach an “ambitious” free trade agreement that would leverage untapped potential in bilateral trade relations. Merchandise trade between the two countries amounted to $3.62 billion in 2024–2025, according to recent reports.

Following his arrival in Israel, Modi posted on social media, expressing his appreciation for the “warm reception” he received and expressing hope for continued strengthening of relations between India and Israel.

This visit marks Modi’s second trip to Israel, following his first in 2017, which was the first-ever by an Indian Prime Minister to Tel Aviv. The relationship between the two nations has deepened significantly since Modi took office in 2014.

The visit comes at a sensitive time, as Israel continues its military operation in Gaza following the Hamas attacks of October 7th, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the taking of 251 hostages. Israeli media reports estimate over 70,000 Palestinians have been killed in the ensuing conflict, a figure accepted by Israel according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The situation has drawn international scrutiny, with a UN special committee and commission of inquiry, as well as academic experts, labeling Israel’s actions in Gaza as “genocide,” a characterization Israel denies.

During his address to the Knesset, Modi emphasized the need for sustained and coordinated global action to counter terrorism, stating that “terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere.” He also voiced support for Israel’s normalization of relations with other Arab countries through the Abraham Accords. He did not, however, address the loss of Palestinian life during his Knesset address.

India and Israel have expanded cooperation across multiple sectors, including defense, agriculture, technology, and cybersecurity, while India simultaneously maintains strong ties with Gulf nations and Iran, including collaborative work on the Chabahar port. New Delhi also maintains engagement with authorities in Afghanistan.

The India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor, unveiled in 2023 as a project to link transport and energy networks through Saudi Arabia and Israel, has stalled following the October 7th attacks and the subsequent war in Gaza. The future of this ambitious infrastructure project remains uncertain.

On Tuesday, February 25, 2026, Prime Minister Modi addressed the Knesset, where he was conferred with the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ – a rare honor recognizing his contribution to strengthening ties between the two nations. The visit underscores the growing strategic partnership between India and Israel, built on shared security concerns and economic opportunities. Talks between the two governments are also focused on a potential India–Israel Free Trade Agreement, which officials hope will further boost economic cooperation.

The strengthening of ties between India and Israel reflects a broader shift in geopolitical alignments in the Middle East, as India seeks to diversify its strategic partnerships and secure its economic interests. However, India’s balancing act – maintaining strong relationships with both Israel and key Arab nations – presents a complex diplomatic challenge.

The visit also comes as India navigates a changing global landscape, marked by increasing geopolitical competition and the rise of new power centers. India’s engagement with Israel is seen as part of a broader strategy to enhance its influence and secure its position as a leading global power.