Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to begin his official visit to Israel on February 25, a trip widely seen as a pivotal moment in the evolving India–Israel strategic partnership. Ahead of the visit, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has floated the idea of a six-nation strategic framework — termed the “Hexagon of Alliances” — aimed at countering extremist threats in West Asia and beyond.
The proposal has triggered intense strategic discussions in diplomatic and defence circles, particularly over whether India should formally join such a grouping.
What Is the ‘Hexagon Alliance’?
According to Israeli statements, the proposed six-party alliance would include India, Greece, Cyprus and select Arab, African and Asian partners. The framework is envisioned as a platform for cooperation across three core pillars:
- Economic collaboration
- Diplatic coordination
- Security cooperation
Reports suggest the initiative mirrors the connectivity and economic logic of the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), while also serving as a counterbalance to Iran and its proxy networks in the region.
Netanyahu described India as a “powerful partner” in innovation, security and strategic vision, calling Modi a “dear friend” and underlining the deepening alignment between the two nations.
Strategic Calculations for India
Defence expert Lt Col (Retd.) J.S. Sodhi notes that India and Israel have long shared strong defence ties, particularly in intelligence sharing, missile systems, surveillance technologies and counter-terror cooperation. Both nations have faced extremist violence and have expanded military-technical collaboration over the past decade.
However, experts caution that India’s secular and multi-aligned foreign policy approach may make it hesitant to join a bloc explicitly framed around sectarian or regional fault lines. “India values strategic autonomy. Any alliance perceived as targeting a specific religious bloc could complicate its West Asian diplomacy,” Sodhi observed.
Potential Defence Deals on the Table
Speculation is growing that Modi’s visit could result in major defence agreements, potentially involving joint development of:
- Ballistic missile defence shields
- Laser-based weapon systems
- Advanced drone platforms
- Long-range stand-off missiles
Expanded cooperation on systems such as Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow missile defence platforms may also be discussed. Such collaboration would significantly enhance India’s air and missile defence capabilities.
Analysts argue that a deeper Indo-Israeli defence alignment could shift regional strategic equations — particularly vis-à-vis Pakistan, which has sought closer military ties with Saudi Arabia and other partners in recent years.
Hamas Rejects Proposal
The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from Hamas, whose spokesperson Hazem Qasim described the idea as a direct threat to regional interests. According to media reports, he accused Israel of attempting to reshape West Asia in a manner that serves only its strategic priorities, particularly in the aftermath of the Gaza conflict.
Diplomatic Symbolism and Parliamentary Address
Modi’s two-day visit is expected to carry strong symbolic weight. He may address the Knesset, Israel’s parliament — a rare honour reflecting the depth of bilateral relations.
Both sides are likely to sign agreements in technology, artificial intelligence, agriculture, water management, security cooperation and trade. The visit comes months after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, adding further geopolitical significance.
A Partnership Rooted in Innovation and Security
Responding to Netanyahu’s remarks, Modi thanked his Israeli counterpart on social media, affirming that India values its “unbreakable friendship” with Israel, grounded in trust, innovation and a shared commitment to peace and progress.
As discussions around the Hexagon Alliance continue, India faces a strategic balancing act: strengthening defence and technological cooperation with Israel while preserving its broader diplomatic equilibrium across West Asia.
Whether New Delhi formally embraces the proposed alliance or limits itself to bilateral expansion, the visit is poised to mark another milestone in the India–Israel relationship — one with implications extending far beyond the region.
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