Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a two-day visit to Israel, marking his second trip to the country after his landmark 2017 visit — the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister. The latest visit comes at a time of heightened geopolitical churn in West Asia and growing conversations around new regional alignments.
At the centre of the diplomatic spotlight is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal for what he describes as a “hexagon” alliance — a multi-regional framework that would include India alongside Arab, African, Mediterranean (notably Greece and Cyprus), and select Asian nations.
The ‘Hexagon’ Framework
Speaking at a cabinet meeting earlier this year, Netanyahu outlined a vision of interconnected alliances aimed at fostering security cooperation and strategic alignment. He suggested that the grouping would bring together countries that share common perceptions of regional threats and long-term goals.
While observers note that the idea bears similarities to economic connectivity projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), Netanyahu’s articulation leans more heavily toward defence and ideological coordination rather than trade alone.
The framework is widely viewed as an effort to counter emerging regional blocs and reinforce partnerships among like-minded states.
What’s on Modi’s Agenda
During the visit, Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Netanyahu, address the Knesset (Israel’s Parliament), and meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog. His itinerary also includes participation in a technology and innovation event in Jerusalem, a visit to Yad Vashem — Israel’s Holocaust memorial — and interactions with the Indian community.
Israel has highlighted cooperation in high-technology sectors such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing as a key priority. Both sides are expected to discuss expanding collaboration in emerging technologies, innovation ecosystems, and start-up partnerships.
Defence and Trade at the Core
Beyond symbolism, defence cooperation remains a cornerstone of India-Israel relations. Israel is among India’s largest defence suppliers, and discussions are expected to include advanced systems such as air defence platforms, next-generation drones, and missile technologies.
Reports indicate that substantial defence deals have been cleared in recent months, and a broader framework agreement may be under consideration to deepen long-term military collaboration.
On the economic front, bilateral merchandise trade stood at approximately $3.6 billion in FY 2024–25. Notably, both countries have launched formal negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), covering goods, services, customs facilitation, intellectual property, and technical standards.
A Delicate Regional Balancing Act
Modi’s visit comes against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in West Asia, including uncertainty surrounding Iran and the broader Gaza conflict. While India maintains robust strategic ties with Israel, it has also historically engaged Iran and consistently reiterated support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Just days before the visit, India joined several nations in expressing concern over developments in the West Bank — underscoring its nuanced diplomatic positioning.
Pakistan’s Response
The proposed “hexagon” alliance has drawn criticism from Pakistan, whose Senate passed a resolution expressing concern over new regional blocs that it believes could affect stability. Pakistani leadership has simultaneously stepped up diplomatic engagement with Gulf nations, emphasizing cooperation for peace and economic collaboration.
Why This Visit Matters
Modi’s Israel visit goes beyond routine diplomacy. It reflects India’s growing role in West Asia’s evolving power equations and signals deeper institutional cooperation across defence, technology, and trade.
As alliances in the region continue to shift, India’s participation in emerging frameworks — whether economic or strategic — highlights its expanding geopolitical footprint and the balancing act it must maintain in a volatile neighborhood.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
