Modi Set to Visit Israel Next Week, Focus on Defence and Counter-Terrorism

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Israel next week, in what will be his first trip to the country during his third term as India’s leader and his first since 2017. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed preparations for the visit in a recent address to the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, describing the India-Israel relationship as a tremendous alliance and emphasizing Israel’s strong popularity in India.

While New Delhi has yet to issue an official confirmation or announce exact dates, reports indicate possible travel on February 24-25 or February 27-28, following an invitation from Netanyahu. The visit aims to further strengthen bilateral ties amid shared strategic priorities in a complex global landscape.

Discussions are expected to center on expanding defence cooperation, including advanced weaponry, drones, missile systems, and air defence technologies, as Israel remains a key supplier to India. Counter-terrorism efforts will feature prominently, with emphasis on intelligence sharing and joint initiatives reflecting both nations’ firm stance against terrorism. Emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum technology, and agriculture innovations are also likely to feature in talks.

The partnership between India and Israel has grown markedly over the past decade, with defence and security as foundational elements. Netanyahu has repeatedly praised India’s ironclad support for Israel on international platforms and expressed eagerness for comprehensive discussions with Modi.

The announcement has elicited mixed reactions in India, including protests by groups expressing solidarity with Palestine and holding demonstrations in cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Patna against the planned visit.

Official details, including the final itinerary and any joint declarations, are awaited from New Delhi’s confirmation. The trip underscores ongoing efforts to deepen Indo-Israeli collaboration across defence, technology, and strategic domains.