Modi’s Israel Trip Signals a Deepening, and Controversial, Alliance
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to start a two-day visit to Israel on Wednesday, marking a significant moment in the evolving relationship between the two nations. This trip, nine years after his first groundbreaking visit in 2017, underscores a dramatic shift in India’s foreign policy.
From Opposition to ‘Special Relationship’
Historically, India maintained a distance from Israel, opposing its creation in 1948 and delaying formal diplomatic ties until 1992. Although, since 2014, with Modi’s rise to power, the relationship has flourished. India, once a forceful critic of Israeli policies towards Palestinians, now finds itself a key partner in areas like defense, trade, and technology.
Agenda for the Visit: Economic and Security Ties
Modi’s itinerary includes meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, an address to the Knesset, and a visit to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial. The core focus of the visit is to strengthen strategic economic and defense agreements. India’s ambassador to Israel, J.P. Singh, highlighted the complementary nature of the two economies, with Israel excelling in innovation, science, and technology, particularly in areas like AI, cybersecurity, and quantum computing.
A modern Bilateral Investment Treaty, signed in September, aims to provide greater certainty and protection for investors. Both countries are also looking to upgrade existing security agreements and potentially move towards a free trade agreement.
A ‘Hexagon’ Alliance and Regional Implications
Netanyahu has proposed a new regional alliance, dubbed a “hexagon,” including Israel, India, Greece, Cyprus, and potentially other Arab, African, and Asian states. Although no government has officially endorsed this plan, it signals Israel’s ambition to forge stronger partnerships in the region. Modi’s visit is seen by some as an implicit endorsement of Israeli policies.
India as Israel’s Strongest Non-Western Ally
According to Azad Essa, author of Hostile Homelands, India has emerged as Israel’s strongest non-Western ally. This “special relationship” is rooted in strategic cooperation and ideological convergence. Trade between the two countries has surged from $200 million in 1992 to $6.5 billion in 2024, with India becoming Israel’s second-largest trading partner in Asia after China.
Defense Cooperation and Concerns
India is now Israel’s top arms customer. Recent investigations revealed that Indian firms supplied Israel with rockets and explosives even during the conflict in Gaza in 2024. This defense cooperation is a key component of the deepening alliance.
Shared Ideologies and Authoritarian Trends
Analysts suggest a convergence in ideologies, with Modi’s Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Israel’s self-definition as a Jewish state. Both countries frame “Islamic terrorism” as a key threat, a framing that critics argue is used to justify anti-Muslim policies. Essa argues that the alliance represents an embrace of authoritarianism and militarism.
Geopolitical Tensions and India’s Balancing Act
Modi’s visit occurs amidst rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. India recently condemned Israel’s expansion in the occupied West Bank, albeit with a delay that drew scrutiny. India also maintains a cooperative relationship with Iran, including a deal to develop the Chabahar port, but has reportedly begun to scale back its involvement due to US sanctions and pressure.
The US is increasing its military presence in the Arabian Sea, and tensions with Iran are escalating. Israel is likely to be a key participant in any potential escalation, adding another layer of complexity to the regional dynamics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did India and Israel establish full diplomatic relations?
A: India and Israel established full diplomatic relations in 1992.
Q: What are the main areas of cooperation between India and Israel?
A: The main areas of cooperation include defense, trade, technology, agriculture, and counter-terrorism.
Q: What is the ‘hexagon’ alliance proposed by Netanyahu?
A: The ‘hexagon’ alliance is a proposed regional bloc including Israel, India, Greece, Cyprus, and potentially other nations, aimed at promoting stability and countering regional threats.
Q: Has India’s relationship with Iran been affected by its closer ties with Israel?
A: India has reportedly begun to scale back its involvement in the Chabahar port project in Iran due to US sanctions and pressure.
Did you know? India’s trade with Israel has increased dramatically in recent decades, jumping from $200 million in 1992 to $6.5 billion in 2024.
Pro Tip: Understanding the historical context of India-Israel relations is crucial to grasping the significance of Modi’s visit and the potential long-term implications for regional geopolitics.
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