For this article:

17 Feb 2026·Source: The Indian Express
3 min
International RelationsNEWS

Prime Minister Modi's Potential Visit to Israel for Diplomatic Talks

PM Modi is expected to visit Israel to discuss bilateral relations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Israel on February 25 to hold talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This would be Modi's second visit to Israel since 2017. The two leaders are expected to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation in various fields, including defense, security, and trade.

Key Facts

1.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Israel on February 25.

2.

The visit aims to hold talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

3.

This would be Modi's second visit to Israel since 2017.

4.

The leaders are expected to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation in defense, security, and trade.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper 2: Bilateral relations, international agreements

2.

Connects to India's foreign policy, defense strategy, and economic partnerships

3.

Potential for statement-based MCQs on India-Israel relations, trade, and defense cooperation

Visual Insights

Location of Israel

Map showing the location of Israel, the destination of Prime Minister Modi's potential visit.

Loading interactive map...

📍Israel📍India
More Information

Background

India and Israel have steadily built a strong bilateral relationship since establishing full diplomatic relations in 1992. While India recognized Israel in 1950, formal ties were established much later due to India's historical focus on the Non-Aligned Movement and support for the Palestinian cause. Defense cooperation has become a cornerstone of the relationship, with Israel being a major supplier of military equipment to India. Economic ties have also deepened, with increasing trade and investment in sectors like agriculture, technology, and pharmaceuticals. Cooperation extends to areas like counter-terrorism, water management, and space research. High-level visits, including Prime Minister Modi's visit in 2017, have played a crucial role in strengthening the strategic partnership. This growing relationship reflects shared interests and a convergence of views on regional and global issues. The potential visit in February 2025 will be another step to strengthen this bond.

Latest Developments

In recent years, India and Israel have focused on expanding their cooperation in technology and innovation. Several joint projects have been launched to promote research and development in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and agricultural technology. The India-Israel Industrial R&D and Technological Innovation Fund (I4F) has played a key role in supporting these initiatives. Looking ahead, both countries are exploring ways to enhance their strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region. This includes maritime security cooperation and joint exercises. The focus is also on diversifying trade and investment flows, with an emphasis on renewable energy, healthcare, and fintech. Further collaboration is expected in multilateral forums to address global challenges like climate change and terrorism. The upcoming visit could lead to new agreements and initiatives in these areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key areas of cooperation between India and Israel that are important for UPSC Mains?

India and Israel cooperate in defense, security, and trade. Recent developments also highlight cooperation in technology and innovation, particularly through the India-Israel Industrial R&D and Technological Innovation Fund (I4F). These areas are crucial for understanding the evolving dynamics of the bilateral relationship.

Exam Tip

Focus on the strategic implications of defense cooperation and the economic benefits of technology partnerships for the Mains exam.

2. Why is Prime Minister Modi's potential visit to Israel significant in the context of India's foreign policy?

The potential visit underscores the strengthening bilateral relationship between India and Israel. It reflects India's approach to engaging with key partners in the Middle East and its growing focus on cooperation in areas like defense, security, and technology.

Exam Tip

Consider how this visit aligns with India's broader foreign policy objectives in the region.

3. What is the historical background of India-Israel relations, and how has it evolved?

While India recognized Israel in 1950, full diplomatic relations were established in 1992. Initially, India's focus was on the Non-Aligned Movement and support for the Palestinian cause. Over time, defense cooperation became a central aspect of the relationship, and more recently, technology and innovation have gained prominence.

Exam Tip

Understanding the historical context is crucial for analyzing the current dynamics of the relationship.

4. How does the India-Israel Industrial R&D and Technological Innovation Fund (I4F) contribute to the bilateral relationship?

The I4F supports joint projects in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and agricultural technology. It promotes research and development, fostering collaboration between Indian and Israeli entities and strengthening ties in key technological sectors.

Exam Tip

Note the specific sectors supported by I4F for potential prelims questions.

5. What are the potential implications of strengthened India-Israel ties for regional geopolitics?

Strengthened India-Israel ties can influence regional dynamics, particularly concerning security and defense cooperation. This relationship may also impact India's relations with other countries in the Middle East.

Exam Tip

Consider the broader geopolitical context when analyzing the implications of this bilateral relationship.

6. Why is PM Modi's potential visit to Israel in the news recently?

The potential visit is in the news because Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Israel on February 25 to hold talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss cooperation in various fields.

Exam Tip

Stay updated on the actual outcomes of the visit if it occurs, as these will be relevant for current affairs questions.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding India-Israel relations: 1. India recognized Israel in 1950 but established full diplomatic relations only in 1992. 2. Defense cooperation is a significant aspect of the bilateral relationship, with Israel being a major supplier of military equipment to India. 3. The India-Israel Industrial R&D and Technological Innovation Fund (I4F) promotes research and development in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

All three statements are correct. India recognized Israel in 1950 but established full diplomatic relations in 1992. Defense cooperation is indeed a significant aspect, with Israel being a major arms supplier. The I4F does promote R&D in AI and cybersecurity, among other areas.

2. Which of the following factors contributed to the delayed establishment of full diplomatic relations between India and Israel?

  • A.India's focus on the Non-Aligned Movement and support for the Palestinian cause.
  • B.Lack of economic opportunities between the two countries.
  • C.Geographical distance and logistical challenges.
  • D.Differences in political ideologies.
Show Answer

Answer: A

India's historical focus on the Non-Aligned Movement and its support for the Palestinian cause were primary factors in the delayed establishment of full diplomatic relations with Israel. While economic and other factors may have played a minor role, the political considerations were dominant.

3. In the context of India-Israel relations, what is the primary objective of the India-Israel Industrial R&D and Technological Innovation Fund (I4F)?

  • A.To promote cultural exchange programs between the two countries.
  • B.To support research and development in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and agricultural technology.
  • C.To facilitate defense cooperation and arms trade.
  • D.To provide financial assistance to Indian students studying in Israel.
Show Answer

Answer: B

The India-Israel Industrial R&D and Technological Innovation Fund (I4F) primarily aims to support research and development in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and agricultural technology. It is a key initiative to promote technological cooperation between the two countries.

Source Articles

GKSolverToday's News