NEW DELHI – When Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport in July 2017, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally welcomed him with a hug, symbolising a dramatic shift in relations between the two countries. The visit marked the first time an Indian prime minister had travelled to Israel, underscoring what Modi described as a “path-breaking journey” and a turning point in bilateral ties.
Nearly a decade later, analysts say India-Israel relations have transformed from a cautious and largely behind-the-scenes partnership into a highly visible strategic alliance. Modi has frequently referred to Netanyahu as a “dear friend,” highlighting the growing political and personal rapport between the two leaders.
Shift from historical pro-Palestine stance
India was once among the strongest supporters of Palestinian statehood. It opposed the United Nations’ 1947 partition plan and recognised Palestine in 1988, aligning itself with anti-colonial movements and Global South solidarity.
However, geopolitical changes following the Cold War prompted New Delhi to reassess its foreign policy priorities. India formally established diplomatic relations with Israel in 1992, paving the way for expanded cooperation.
Under Modi’s leadership since 2014, that relationship has accelerated significantly. Analysts point to increased defence cooperation, intelligence sharing, and technological collaboration as key drivers of the strengthened partnership.
Defence and technology ties deepen
Israel has emerged as one of India’s top defence suppliers, providing advanced military systems including surveillance drones, missile defence systems, and electronic warfare technology. Security cooperation has intensified as both countries face regional security challenges and share counterterrorism priorities.
Beyond defence, collaboration has expanded into agriculture, water management, cybersecurity, and innovation. Israeli expertise in irrigation and farming technologies has been integrated into Indian agricultural programmes, particularly in drought-prone regions.
Indian officials describe the relationship as pragmatic and mutually beneficial, arguing that Israel’s technological capabilities make it an important strategic partner.
Impact on India-Palestine relations
Despite strengthening ties with Israel, India has continued to maintain formal diplomatic relations with Palestine and publicly support a two-state solution. However, analysts say India’s approach has become more balanced — or more cautious — compared with its earlier unequivocal support for Palestinian causes.
Some experts argue that India’s closer alignment with Israel reflects broader geopolitical priorities, including access to defence technology and closer ties with Western allies. Others say India is attempting to balance its relations with Israel while maintaining partnerships across the Arab world.
Strategic realignment in a changing world
India’s evolving relationship with Israel reflects broader changes in global geopolitics and New Delhi’s shift toward strategic partnerships based on economic, technological, and security interests.
As Modi prepares for another visit to Israel, the partnership underscores India’s growing emphasis on strategic autonomy — pursuing stronger ties with multiple global powers while navigating complex regional dynamics
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