Netanyahu’s “Hexagon of Alliance”: Is Israel Trying to Draw India In?

Tel Aviv: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel on February 25–26, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has proposed a strategic initiative called the “Hexagon of Alliance,” aiming to position India as a central pillar. Experts caution, however, that Delhi is unlikely to join the alliance without carefully weighing its strategic implications.

What is the Hexagon of Alliance?

Netanyahu envisions a six-member coalition centered around Israel, including India, Mediterranean partners Greece and Cyprus, alongside select Arab and African countries. The alliance is intended to coordinate on security, economic cooperation, and diplomatic alignment, particularly to counter what Netanyahu describes as the “radical Shia axis” and “emerging radical Sunni axis,” with Iran forming the core of the Shia axis.

India’s Position

India-Israel relations have strengthened significantly over the past decade. Netanyahu has publicly called Modi a friend and India a key strategic partner. Defense ties have deepened, with India among the largest buyers of Israeli military equipment and both nations collaborating on intelligence sharing and military technology. Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel in 2017, further solidifying bilateral ties.

Despite this, experts stress that joining the Hexagon of Alliance presents a dilemma for India. Participation could conflict with India’s longstanding policy on the Middle East, including relations with Arab nations and support for Palestine. India has maintained these policies even under Modi’s leadership, making an active military role in an Israel-led coalition politically sensitive.

Strategic Considerations

Analysts note that Netanyahu’s proposal is a clear attempt to pull India into Israel’s security network in the Middle East. However, India’s decision will require careful deliberation, balancing military commitments, economic interests, and the safety of its large workforce in Arab countries. Any overt military alignment with Israel could trigger backlash in West Asia and potentially harm India’s economic and diplomatic interests.

Prime Minister Modi is expected to approach the Hexagon of Alliance with caution, emphasizing strategic autonomy while maintaining robust bilateral cooperation with Israel in defense, technology, and diplomacy, without committing to an active military role.