Netanyahu Highlights India’s Strong Support While Pushing Back Against JD Vance’s ‘Only Ally’ Remark

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly countered recent comments by US Vice President JD Vance, emphasizing that Israel enjoys broad international support beyond its close partnership with the United States. In doing so, he singled out India as a nation where his country receives tremendous backing from its 1.4 billion people.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu with PM Modi in February this year (X/@narendramodi) | Hindustan Times

Netanyahu’s Response to Vance

During a Fox News interview aired on July 6, 2026, Netanyahu addressed Vance’s assertion that the United States stands as Israel’s only powerful ally. He described India warmly, stating, “We have some other friends, like a small country called India. It has 1.4 billion people, and boy, do we have tremendous support there.” Netanyahu added that messages of support from Indians regularly flood his Facebook page, reflecting overwhelming public goodwill.

While making this point, Netanyahu was careful to affirm strong US-Israel ties. He praised President Donald Trump as the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House and noted his good personal relationship with Vance. However, he clarified that friendship does not mean full agreement on every issue.

Background of the Remarks

Vance had earlier warned Israeli officials against criticizing the Trump administration’s diplomatic initiatives, particularly the peace agreement with Iran. He stressed America’s vital military support to Israel, including defensive weapons systems, and urged caution to avoid alienating its key partner amid regional challenges.

These comments emerged against the backdrop of ongoing tensions involving Israel’s operations in Lebanon, the situation in Gaza, and broader Middle East dynamics. Netanyahu’s response underscores Israel’s efforts to highlight its diverse global relationships at a time of heightened international scrutiny.

Strengthening India-Israel Partnership

Netanyahu’s appreciative remarks reflect the deepening strategic and people-to-people ties between India and Israel. Over the years, the two democracies have built robust cooperation across defense, counter-terrorism, agriculture, water technology, and innovation sectors. High-level engagements between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Netanyahu have played a key role in advancing this partnership.

Public support in India for Israel remains notably strong, visible through social media engagement and shared perspectives on security challenges. Netanyahu’s reference to India’s vast population and enthusiastic backing highlights the mutual respect and growing importance of this bilateral relationship on the global stage.

Broader Global Context

Beyond India, Netanyahu pointed to Israel’s appeal as a partner in advanced fields such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and defense technology. He noted that many world leaders privately seek collaboration despite public pressures, illustrating the nuanced realities of international diplomacy.

This episode illustrates how nations navigate complex alliances while managing differences. Israel continues to balance its longstanding relationship with the United States with expanding partnerships across Asia and other regions.

The MGMM Outlook 

Netanyahu’s remarks acknowledging India’s strong public support reflect the growing depth of the India-Israel relationship, which has expanded well beyond traditional diplomatic engagement. Cooperation in defence, counter-terrorism, agriculture, technology, water management, and innovation has created a partnership based on shared strategic interests and mutual trust. His recognition of the goodwill shown by millions of Indians highlights how the relationship now enjoys both governmental and public backing, making it one of the most significant bilateral partnerships in the region.

At a time when global alliances are being reassessed amid shifting geopolitical realities, India’s balanced foreign policy continues to strengthen its standing as a reliable and respected international partner. Netanyahu’s comments also underscore India's increasing influence in global affairs, where its support carries diplomatic weight beyond South Asia. As both countries deepen cooperation in emerging technologies, security, and economic development, the India-Israel partnership is poised to remain an important pillar of regional stability and long-term strategic collaboration.

(Sources: Firstpost, The Indian Express, Hindustan Times)