Netanyahu Praises India’s ‘Crazy Love’ for Israel Amid Global Challenges

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warmly acknowledged the strong support extended by the Indian people to Israel, describing it as “absolutely crazy love” at a time when his nation encounters notable international scrutiny and efforts at delegitimisation.

Speaking at a leadership conference in the Jordan Valley on May 28, Netanyahu emphasised the unique and expanding partnership between Israel and India. He referred to India as a “huge power” and highlighted the exceptional warmth in bilateral ties, noting that public backing for Israel in India stands in contrast to challenges faced elsewhere in the world.

“In India, there is an absolutely crazy love for Israel, truly crazy. I think I have more followers from India than from anywhere else,” Netanyahu remarked, underscoring the depth of people-to-people connections between the two nations.

India and Israel have sharply expanded cooperation in defence, technology, and innovation. (Photo: X/@narendramodi) | India Today

A Relationship Built on Shared Values and Strategic Interests

The India-Israel partnership has grown steadily over the decades, evolving into a multifaceted strategic engagement that spans defence, technology, agriculture, and innovation. Both countries, as vibrant democracies with rich civilisational histories, have found common ground in addressing shared concerns such as counter-terrorism, water security, and technological advancement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landmark visits to Israel, including his most recent state visit in February 2026, have played a pivotal role in elevating these ties. During the February visit, the two nations formalised a “Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity,” marking a significant upgrade in their bilateral framework.

The visit witnessed the signing of multiple agreements covering critical areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, defence cooperation, agriculture, space, and trade. Both leaders expressed strong commitment to advancing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement, which is expected to further boost economic collaboration.

Key Pillars of Cooperation

Defence and security remain cornerstone elements of the relationship. India continues to be one of Israel’s major partners in this domain, with collaboration extending to advanced systems, joint research and development, and capacity building. Israeli innovations in areas such as drones, missile defence, and surveillance technologies have contributed meaningfully to India’s security infrastructure.

In the agricultural sector, initiatives like the Indo-Israel Centres of Excellence have helped Indian farmers adopt modern techniques in drip irrigation, precision farming, and efficient water management, leading to improved productivity across several states. Cooperation in emerging technologies, including AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity, is opening new frontiers for mutual growth and innovation.

Trade volumes have shown consistent growth, with exchanges in diamonds, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and high-tech products forming important components. People-to-people ties are also flourishing through increased tourism, educational exchanges, and cultural interactions, fostering greater understanding between the citizens of both countries.

India’s Approach to West Asia

India has consistently maintained a balanced and principled foreign policy towards the West Asian region. It has upheld strong counter-terrorism cooperation with Israel while simultaneously advocating for peaceful resolutions to conflicts and supporting humanitarian efforts. This approach reflects India’s broader commitment to regional stability, development, and constructive international partnerships.

Netanyahu’s recent comments highlight the value Israel places on India’s steadfast friendship, particularly amid complex global dynamics.

The MGMM Outlook 

India and Israel continue to strengthen their partnership at a time when global politics is becoming increasingly complex and divided. Benjamin Netanyahu’s remarks about the overwhelming support for Israel in India reflect how deeply the relationship has expanded beyond diplomacy into strong people-to-people trust. Over the years, both nations have built cooperation in crucial sectors such as defence, cybersecurity, agriculture, artificial intelligence, and innovation, creating a partnership driven not only by strategic interests but also by shared concerns over terrorism, security, and technological growth. India’s rise as a major global power has further increased its importance in Israel’s foreign policy outlook.

The growing closeness between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Benjamin Netanyahu has played a major role in transforming bilateral relations into a comprehensive strategic alliance. Agreements in emerging technologies, defence systems, trade, and agriculture demonstrate how both countries are focused on long-term development and self-reliance. India’s balanced approach in West Asia also highlights its ability to maintain strong ties with multiple regional players while continuing counter-terrorism cooperation with Israel. The expanding partnership signals that India and Israel are likely to remain important partners in shaping innovation, economic collaboration, and regional stability in the years ahead.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, NDTV, India Today)