Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Tel Aviv on Wednesday for a two-day State Visit to Israel, his first trip since 2017, where he was welcomed at Ben Gurion Airport by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Sara Netanyahu in a special gesture highlighting strong bilateral ties.
The visit began with a ceremonial reception and bilateral engagement schedule that includes talks with Netanyahu, a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, a historic address to the Knesset, diaspora outreach and participation in innovation and memorial events including Yad Vashem. The leaders are also expected to attend an innovation programme in Jerusalem focusing on advanced technologies.
On-Ground Moments
Visuals from the airport captured Modi and Netanyahu sharing a warm embrace, reflecting a personal rapport that has defined India-Israel diplomacy over the past decade. Diplomatic sources noted strong anticipation among the Indian diaspora, which is expected to attend public engagements during the visit.
Official Statements
In his departure statement, Modi described India and Israel’s relationship as a robust strategic partnership spanning science, innovation, agriculture, defence, trade and people-to-people ties. Netanyahu, addressing his cabinet ahead of the visit, called Modi a close friend and described the trip as historic, emphasising cooperation in high-tech sectors including AI and quantum technologies.
Background
Modi’s 2017 visit marked the first standalone bilateral trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel, opening new avenues in defence, water management and agricultural technology collaboration. Earlier engagement dates back to 2006 when Modi, then Gujarat Chief Minister, explored Israeli irrigation innovations that later influenced India’s micro-irrigation policies.
Why It Matters
The 2026 visit comes at a time when global priorities increasingly focus on food security, climate resilience and technological sovereignty. Israel’s strengths in water technology, cyber security and innovation complement India’s scale and market capacity. Strategically, the visit reinforces defence cooperation while expanding collaboration in emerging sectors shaping future economies.
What Comes Next
Officials expect announcements around joint research, start-up partnerships and technology cooperation frameworks. Modi’s Knesset address is likely to outline the next phase of the strategic partnership and broader regional engagement.