Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, reviewing the progress of the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership and discussing the evolving security and diplomatic situation in West Asia. According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the telephonic conversation focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation while also covering recent developments in the region amid continuing geopolitical tensions.
Strategic partnership reviewed
The two leaders reviewed the progress made under the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership and reiterated their commitment to deepening collaboration across multiple sectors. "The two leaders reviewed sustained progress in the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation across various sectors for the mutual benefit of the two countries," the PMO said in a statement. India and Israel have steadily expanded cooperation in areas including defence, agriculture, water management, innovation, cybersecurity, advanced technologies and trade over the past decade.
Focus on West Asia
Prime Minister Modi and Netanyahu also exchanged views on the latest developments in West Asia, where the security environment continues to remain fluid. While the PMO did not disclose details of the discussion, it said both leaders shared their assessments of the regional situation and developments of mutual concern. The conversation comes amid heightened diplomatic activity and continuing instability across parts of West Asia, with several countries closely monitoring the evolving security landscape.
'to remain in contact'
The PMO said both leaders agreed to remain in touch as developments unfold. "The two leaders agreed to remain in contact," the statement said. The latest interaction underscores continued high-level engagement between New Delhi and Tel Aviv, with both countries maintaining regular dialogue on bilateral cooperation as well as regional and global strategic issues.
Growing India-Israel ties
India and Israel elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership in 2017, following Prime Minister Modi's landmark visit to Israel—the first by an Indian Prime Minister. Since then, the partnership has broadened significantly, encompassing defence procurement, joint research, agricultural technology, innovation, artificial intelligence, water conservation, homeland security and growing commercial ties. The two countries have also maintained regular exchanges between their political leadership, reflecting the increasing strategic importance of the bilateral relationship.