‘Glad to speak with my friend’: PM Modi, Israeli PM Netanyahu Reaffirm Strategic Ties, Joint Fight Against Terrorism

What happened: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reaffirming close bilateral ties.

Why it matters now: The talks come amid heightened global security concerns and ongoing instability in West Asia.

What changes for people: India and Israel signalled continued cooperation in security, defence, technology, and counter-terrorism.

Who is affected: Governments, defence establishments, and strategic partners of India and Israel, along with regional stakeholders.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing the interaction as a conversation with a “friend” and underlining India’s firm commitment to deepening strategic cooperation with Israel while jointly combating terrorism.

The discussion reinforced the long-standing partnership between the two countries at a time when regional and global security dynamics remain volatile.

What PM Modi Said

Sharing details of the interaction on social media, PM Modi said he was pleased to speak with PM Netanyahu and reiterated India’s strong solidarity with Israel. He emphasised that terrorism in all its forms must be firmly opposed, and highlighted the shared resolve of both nations to confront common security threats.

India’s position against terrorism remains clear and uncompromising.

Focus on Strategic Partnership

According to officials familiar with the conversation, the two leaders reviewed the broad spectrum of India-Israel relations, including cooperation in defence, intelligence-sharing, innovation, agriculture, and critical technologies.

India and Israel have steadily expanded ties over the past decade, particularly in defence manufacturing, cyber security, and counter-terror operations, making Israel one of India’s key strategic partners in the region.

Regional and Global Context

The talks come against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has raised concerns over regional stability, global trade routes, and energy security. India has consistently called for dialogue, restraint, and protection of civilians, while maintaining active engagement with all key regional actors.

Diplomatic experts note that India’s outreach reflects its approach of balancing strategic partnerships while safeguarding national security interests and the safety of Indian nationals abroad.

Signals for the Future

Observers see the conversation as a signal that high-level political engagement between New Delhi and Tel Aviv will continue, despite shifting geopolitical pressures. The emphasis on counter-terrorism cooperation also suggests sustained collaboration between security agencies.