PM to address Knesset, deepen strategic partnership with Netanyahu
February 25, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a two-day state visit to Israel at the invitation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Marking his second trip since 2017, the visit aims to further strengthen the robust India-Israel partnership. Talks are expected to cover defence cooperation, advanced technology, agriculture, water management, trade, investment and cultural exchanges, along with key regional and global developments.
A major highlight of the visit will be Modi’s address to the Knesset, making him the first Indian Prime Minister to speak before Israel’s parliament. He will also meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog and interact with members of the Indian diaspora. In his departure statement, Modi said the trip would help set new goals for the strategic partnership and advance a shared vision for a resilient and prosperous future.
The visit has been marked by warm symbolism, with Netanyahu referring to Modi as a “dear friend.” Israeli daily The Jerusalem Post carried Modi’s photograph on its front page with the headline “Welcome Modi,” alongside greetings of “Namaste” and “Shalom.” Building on the foundation laid during his 2017 trip, the current visit is expected to elevate bilateral ties to a “special strategic partnership,” placing India among Israel’s closest global partners.