DIVYA DELHI : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Israel on February 25–26, marking his first trip to the country since his landmark 2017 visit. The tour comes at a crucial time, days after India joined over 100 nations in criticising Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank and reiterating support for a two-state solution. Despite New Delhi’s recent backing of Palestinian concerns, India maintains strong ties with Israel. Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have shared warm relations, with both leaders previously highlighting their personal rapport. Defence cooperation is expected to dominate talks. Israel, known for advanced missile defence systems such as Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow, remains a key strategic partner. India is exploring joint development and procurement of advanced missile and loitering munition systems, linked to its broader push to strengthen air and ballistic missile defence capabilities. The visit is expected to balance diplomatic messaging on West Asia while advancing India’s strategic and defence interests.
