New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive in Israel for a two-day visit that the Indian government says aims to reaffirm the “deep and long-standing strategic partnership” between the two countries. The trip announced on Tuesday comes at a sensitive geopolitical moment marked by continued conflict in Gaza and escalating tensions involving Iran.

Modi is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, address the Knesset, and hold delegation-level talks. He will also meet President Isaac Herzog and visit Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust remembrance centre.

Strategic and defence focus

Officials from both sides have indicated that defence cooperation and security agreements will be central to discussions. An upgraded security pact is expected, alongside negotiations on a potential free trade agreement later this year.

India and Israel have steadily expanded defence ties over the past decade, with Israel becoming one of India’s key arms suppliers. The visit is likely to consolidate cooperation in defence technology, innovation, water management and agriculture, reflecting a broader strategic alignment.

Gaza war and genocide allegations

The visit takes place during Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza following the October 2023 Hamas attack. The war has resulted in large-scale casualties and humanitarian devastation in Gaza. South Africa has filed a case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide, an allegation Israel strongly denies. Proceedings at the ICJ are ongoing.

Multiple UN agencies have warned of severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza, including displacement, infrastructure collapse and food insecurity. The conflict has intensified global scrutiny of Israel’s military operations and diplomatic relationships.

India has maintained a calibrated position, expressing concern over civilian casualties while continuing strategic engagement with Israel. Modi’s visit signals that bilateral defence and economic priorities remain intact despite international controversy surrounding the Gaza war.

Iran tensions and regional volatility

The regional backdrop adds further complexity. Israel’s tensions with Iran have escalated amid concerns over Tehran’s nuclear programme and its support for armed groups in the region. The United States has warned Iran of possible consequences if diplomatic efforts fail, raising fears of broader military confrontation.

India has significant stakes in regional stability, including energy security and diaspora interests in West Asia. Any escalation between Israel and Iran could have economic and strategic implications for New Delhi.

Timing and diplomatic balancing

India announced the visit only shortly before Modi’s departure, underscoring the sensitivity of the diplomatic context. Israel’s ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has indicated that security cooperation will deepen to address evolving threats.

The visit highlights India’s continued balancing act in West Asia: strengthening strategic ties with Israel while maintaining relations with Arab states and managing economic exposure to regional instability.

As Gaza remains under bombardment and Iran tensions simmer, Modi’s trip reflects both continuity in India–Israel relations and the geopolitical risks shaping the partnership in 2026.