Netanyahu Proposes “Hexagon Alliance” – A New Regional Security Framework?
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing for a new regional alliance, dubbed the “hexagon alliance,” aiming to unite countries with shared security interests in the Middle East. The proposed alliance includes India, Greece, Cyprus, and several unnamed Arab, African, and Asian nations, according to reports from February 22, 2026.
Countering Regional “Axes of Radicalism”
Netanyahu frames this alliance as a response to what he describes as two threatening poles of instability: a radical Shia axis and a radical Sunni axis. The initiative seeks to create a system of interconnected partnerships to counter these perceived threats. Still, no country has yet formally endorsed the plan.
India’s Role: Pragmatism Over Ideology
The timing of this proposal coincides with an anticipated visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel. Modi has previously affirmed India’s appreciation for its relationship with Israel, built on trust, innovation, and technological cooperation. Despite this, analysts suggest India is likely to maintain a pragmatic approach and is unlikely to commit to an alliance based on ideological alignment, consistent with New Delhi’s long-standing non-aligned foreign policy.
Strengthening Ties with Greece and Cyprus
Israel has been actively strengthening cooperation with Greece and Cyprus, particularly in the areas of energy and defense. In 2025, Greece approved the purchase of 36 PULS rocket artillery systems from Israel for approximately US$760 million. Discussions are also underway for a further defense package potentially worth US$3.5 billion.
Legal and Political Hurdles
Both Greece and Cyprus are members of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu concerning alleged war crimes in Gaza. This presents potential legal and political obstacles to forging a closer alliance.
Is it a Real Alliance or Political Posturing?
Experts are skeptical about the feasibility of a formal alliance. Andreas Krieg, a security studies professor at King’s College London, suggests the “hexagon” concept is more about framing existing relationships as a new strategic bloc than establishing a concrete alliance. He compares it to a way of “packaging” existing partnerships.
Domestic Political Considerations
The initiative is also viewed through the lens of Netanyahu’s domestic political challenges, including controversies surrounding judicial reforms and corruption investigations. The alliance proposal may be an attempt to demonstrate that Israel is not diplomatically isolated as it heads towards elections.
Diminished International Standing
Analysts note that Israel’s declining international image due to the ongoing conflict makes it difficult to garner substantial support for such a large-scale alliance. One Israeli political analyst described the “hexagon” alliance as appearing more like a “fantasy” than a realistic plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the “hexagon alliance”? It is a proposed regional security alliance initiated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, intended to unite countries with shared security interests in the Middle East.
- Which countries are expected to be part of the alliance? India, Greece, Cyprus, and several unnamed Arab, African, and Asian nations have been mentioned.
- What is India’s stance on the alliance? India is expected to remain pragmatic and is unlikely to join an alliance based on ideological grounds.
- What are the obstacles to forming this alliance? Legal issues related to ICC arrest warrants for Netanyahu, and skepticism about the alliance’s feasibility are key challenges.
Pro Tip: Regional alliances are complex and often require years of negotiation and compromise. The success of the “hexagon alliance” will depend on addressing the concerns of all potential members and demonstrating tangible benefits for participation.
Did you know? Israel has significantly strengthened its defense cooperation with Greece in recent years, including substantial arms deals.
Stay informed about geopolitical developments and their impact on global security. Explore more articles on our website to gain deeper insights into international relations and regional dynamics.
