New Delhi, February 25, 2026 — Is a significant defence agreement in the works between India and Israel? Strong indications emerged as Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a two-day state visit to Israel, signaling deeper cooperation in defence and strategic sectors.
At the invitation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Modi is visiting Israel from February 25–26 in what will be his second trip to the country and his first during his third term in office. The visit comes nearly nine years after his landmark 2017 tour, which marked the first standalone visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel.
Strong Signals on Defence and Security
Before departure, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the visit would further consolidate the “strong and multi-faceted strategic partnership” between the two nations. While no specific agreements were formally announced, his explicit reference to cooperation in defence and security has fueled speculation about a possible major defence deal.
In an official statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, Modi said he looked forward to discussions with Netanyahu aimed at expanding collaboration in:
- Defence and security
- Science and technology
- Innovation
- Agriculture
- Water management
- Trade and investment
- People-to-people ties
“We will also exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest,” Modi stated, underlining the broader geopolitical dimension of the visit.
Given Israel’s status as one of India’s key defence suppliers, the renewed emphasis on military and technological cooperation has drawn attention from strategic analysts. Any major agreement could significantly enhance India’s defence modernization efforts.
High-Level Engagements Planned
During the visit, Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Netanyahu and meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
A key highlight of the visit will be Modi’s address to the Knesset, Israel’s Parliament. He will become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset, a move seen as a tribute to the deepening parliamentary and democratic ties between the two nations.
The Prime Minister is also expected to interact with members of the Indian diaspora in Israel, acknowledging their role in strengthening bilateral relations.
Strategic Timing
Modi is scheduled to arrive in Israel at approximately 12:45 PM local time on Wednesday, where he will be received by Netanyahu. The two-day visit includes multiple engagements across diplomatic, strategic, and economic domains.
The timing of the visit is geopolitically significant, coming amid evolving regional dynamics in West Asia. Analysts view the trip as an affirmation of India’s intent to maintain a balanced yet robust strategic footprint in the region.
Toward a New Strategic Milestone
While official announcements are awaited, the clear emphasis on defence, security, and advanced technology suggests that the visit could pave the way for new agreements — possibly including a major defence deal.
If finalized, such an agreement would mark another milestone in India–Israel relations, reinforcing a partnership built on mutual strategic interests, technological collaboration, and shared democratic values.
As Prime Minister Modi embarks on this high-profile visit, expectations remain high that it will set new benchmarks for the evolving India–Israel strategic partnership.
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