Feb 26 • 21:17 UTC 🇫🇷 France France24

Brothers-in-arms: How Modi and Netanyahu are bringing India and Israel closer together

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Israel solidified ties between India and Israel amid rising defense cooperation, while largely neglecting the ongoing situation in Gaza.

During a recent two-day visit to Tel Aviv, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reinforced India's ties with Israel, departing from India's traditional nonalignment stance. Modi's visit included meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing the strengthening of political and strategic collaborations between the nations, fueled by increasing defense deals and shared technological advancements. Netanyahu's warm reception included a notable display of camaraderie, reflecting the personal rapport between the two leaders.

Modi's visit, which came shortly after the alarming attacks in Israel on October 7, saw him openly support Israel's military response while notably omitting any reference to the Palestinian plight. This selective acknowledgment has sparked discussions on India's evolving foreign policy, particularly in the context of its traditionally nuanced approach to Middle Eastern geopolitics. The lack of mention of the situation in Gaza during his statements is significant given the complexity of the region's conflicts.

The implications of this visit suggest a strategic pivot for India under Modi's leadership, aligning more closely with Israel, potentially at the expense of India's long-standing relationships with other Middle Eastern nations. This shift may influence regional dynamics and India's foreign policy landscape, as Modi's government seeks to forge stronger international alliances that bolster its defense and technological capabilities. The relationship between Modi and Netanyahu emerges as not only politically beneficial but also ideologically aligned, highlighting a growing camaraderie between the two nations.

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