India and Israel: Evolving from Friends to Strategic Partners

At a special event in Tel Aviv celebrating India’s 77th Republic Day, Israel’s Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar described India as “far more than a good friend” — a trusted strategic partner. Highlighting the deepening ties between the two nations, Zohar emphasized that India and Israel share a growing strategic convergence, extending well beyond traditional diplomacy. This recognition comes amid a backdrop of close collaboration in defence, trade, technology, and cultural exchanges, reflecting the maturity of bilateral relations.

Zohar also noted the symbolic significance of the celebration, coinciding with Israel’s announcement on the recovery of the remains of the last hostage from the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. He said this moment underscored the mutual respect and shared sentiments between the two nations, marking a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.

Miki Zohar said his country attaches utmost importance to its ties with New Delhi. | NDTV

Strengthening Strategic Convergence

India and Israel have increasingly aligned their strategic interests over the past decade. Their collaboration spans sectors such as innovation, defence, agriculture, water management, science, health, and cybersecurity. Both nations view these areas not just as opportunities for economic growth but also as pillars of long-term security and technological advancement.

High-level visits and diplomatic engagement have reinforced this alignment. Israeli ministers responsible for tourism, economy, agriculture, and finance visited India to discuss a roadmap toward a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), while Indian leaders, including Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, emphasized joint initiatives in startups, innovation, and cybersecurity. These exchanges have laid the groundwork for deeper economic and strategic ties.

Expanding Trade and Economic Cooperation

Bilateral trade between India and Israel has witnessed significant growth, evolving from a defence-centric relationship to a diverse economic partnership. Key sectors now include pharmaceuticals, agricultural technology, IT and telecom, and homeland security systems. The signing of a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) in 2025 marked a historic milestone, offering investor protections and paving the way for an eventual free trade pact. Both countries have hailed this agreement as a strategic step to foster mutual investment and strengthen economic interdependence.

The expanding trade relationship is complemented by initiatives that promote startups, joint research, and innovation, positioning India and Israel as partners not only in commerce but also in technological advancement.

Defence and Security: A Cornerstone of Cooperation

Defence ties remain a foundational element of the India-Israel partnership. Joint projects, such as the Barak-8 missile system and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have enhanced India’s defence capabilities while fostering technological collaboration. Israeli defence systems, including advanced radar networks and cybersecurity frameworks, are now integral to India’s security infrastructure. Additionally, both nations are expanding joint research and development initiatives and exploring co-production opportunities in defence manufacturing, demonstrating a shared commitment to innovation and strategic security.

Cultural and People-to-People Connections

The India-Israel relationship is not limited to diplomacy and defence; it is also strengthened by historical and cultural bonds. Communities like the Bene Israel and Cochin Jews have coexisted peacefully in India for centuries, laying the foundation for enduring ties. Tourism, academic exchanges, and cultural interactions have flourished, further deepening mutual understanding. The introduction of direct flights between Tel Aviv and New Delhi has enhanced travel, business collaboration, and educational exchanges, making the relationship more dynamic and accessible.

Leadership Chemistry and Vision for the Future

Minister Zohar highlighted the strong personal rapport between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, noting that their close coordination has played a crucial role in advancing bilateral relations. This leadership chemistry has translated into practical outcomes, including strategic agreements, trade deals, and enhanced defence cooperation.

Looking ahead, both countries have adopted a joint action plan for 2026, focusing on shared priorities, mutual trust, and collaborative solutions to global challenges. This roadmap reflects the commitment of India and Israel to not only strengthen existing ties but also explore new avenues for partnership in security, technology, and economic development.

The MGMM Outlook

India and Israel have steadily transformed their bilateral relationship from traditional friendship into a robust strategic partnership. This evolution is evident across multiple domains, including defence, technology, trade, agriculture, cybersecurity, and health. High-level diplomatic exchanges and mutual visits have strengthened collaboration, laying the groundwork for agreements such as the 2025 Bilateral Investment Treaty and discussions on a potential Free Trade Agreement. Initiatives in startups, innovation, and joint research further highlight the shared commitment to technological and economic advancement, positioning the two nations as partners beyond conventional diplomacy.

Defence and security cooperation remains a cornerstone of this alliance, with joint projects like the Barak-8 missile system and UAV development enhancing India’s capabilities while fostering innovation. Beyond strategic interests, cultural and people-to-people ties—rooted in historical communities such as the Bene Israel and Cochin Jews—complement the partnership, with tourism, academic exchanges, and direct flights strengthening connectivity. Leadership synergy between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Netanyahu has accelerated practical outcomes, reflecting mutual trust and a vision for collaborative solutions in technology, security, and economic development.

(Sources: NDTV, Times of India)