'PM Modi Is One Of Our Greatest Friends': Netanyahu Says Israel Is 'Investing Heavily' In India Ties
'PM Modi Is One Of Our Greatest Friends': Netanyahu Says Israel Is 'Investing Heavily' In India Ties Published By, Last Updated: August 03, 2026, 23:24
'PM Modi Is One Of Our Greatest Friends': Netanyahu Says Israel Is 'Investing Heavily' In India Ties Published By, Last Updated: August 03, 2026, 23:24 IST Amid Iran war, Netanyahu said India remains one of the key countries with which Israel is strengthening ties. Netanyahu Banks On India Amid Geopolitical Shift, Praises PM Modi. File pic/PTI Amid the ongoing Iran conflict and shifting geopolitical equations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday said Israel is investing heavily in its relationship with India, describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “one of our greatest friends" and praising the support Israel has received from India. Speaking about Israel’s foreign relations, Netanyahu said India remains one of the key countries with which Israel is strengthening ties. Netanyahu praises India ties “We need to cultivate additional alliances," Netanyahu said.
“That’s why I’m investing heavily in our relationship with India, with my friend Narendra, who is one of our greatest friends." He also said, “They say Israel is isolated. The support that Israel—and I personally—receive in India is simply unbelievable." Netanyahu’s remarks come as India and Israel continue to expand cooperation across several strategic sectors. Growing India-Israel partnership Netanyahu has been one of the central figures in strengthening India-Israel relations, particularly during Prime Minister Modi’s tenure. The partnership between the two countries has focused on defence, technology, trade and broader strategic cooperation over the years. In 2018, Netanyahu paid a high-profile visit to India, during which both sides signed nine agreements and described their relationship as a “special" partnership. The visit marked another important step in expanding bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.
Partnership expanded in 2026 The relationship has continued to grow in 2026. Prime Minister Modi and Netanyahu elevated bilateral ties to what has been described as the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity. PM Modi visited Israel in February this year. The upgraded partnership covers cooperation in artificial intelligence, critical minerals, defence, trade, labour mobility, education and healthcare. The two governments have continued to deepen engagement across these sectors as part of their broader strategic relationship. Netanyahu has also recently referred to India as a “major global power" and an important partner for Israel. He has repeatedly highlighted the support Israel receives from India and described it as a country showing “tremendous support" for Israel. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18.
