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Modi Israel Visit 2026: PM Narendra Modi to Address Knesset During Historic Jerusalem Trip

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Updated: 25-02-2026, 09.57 PM

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Modi Israel Visit 2026: PM Narendra Modi to Address Knesset During Historic Jerusalem Trip

Modi Israel Visit 2026 Marks Historic Parliamentary Engagement in Israel

Modi Israel Visit 2026 is being described as a landmark diplomatic moment as Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes centre stage in Jerusalem with a scheduled address to the Knesset. The two-day visit in February 2026 marks his second official trip to Israel since 2017, reflecting the steadily strengthening strategic partnership between the two democracies.

Upon his arrival, the Knesset building was illuminated in the colours of the Indian flag—a symbolic gesture widely highlighted in Israeli media, underscoring the significance of the visit.

A Historic Parliamentary Address

The highlight of the visit is Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled address to the Knesset, which would make him the first Indian prime minister to speak before Israel’s parliament. Diplomatic relations between India and Israel were formally established in 1992, and bilateral cooperation has since expanded significantly across defense, agriculture, water management, innovation, and trade.

Modi was received at Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu. Following the welcome ceremony, the two leaders held a brief private meeting and are set to continue official bilateral talks.

Welcoming Modi, Netanyahu stated:
“This is a bond of real friendship! My wife Sara and I welcomed today our good friend, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, who has arrived for another historic visit to Israel.”

Modi responded by expressing gratitude for the warm reception and said he looked forward to “fruitful outcomes that strengthen the India-Israel friendship.”

Political Tensions Ahead of the Address

Despite its historic nature, the planned address has sparked some political debate within Israel. Yair Lapid of the Yesh Atid party indicated that opposition members may boycott the session unless Israel’s Supreme Court president is invited.

However, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana dismissed concerns, stating that attendance would remain strong and the address would proceed as scheduled.

The domestic political friction adds a layer of unpredictability to an otherwise milestone diplomatic engagement.

Strategic Talks with Benjamin Netanyahu

Beyond the parliamentary engagement, Modi and Netanyahu are expected to focus heavily on defence and security cooperation. India and Israel already collaborate closely on military technology, joint production initiatives, and intelligence sharing.

New agreements in defence manufacturing and advanced systems may be explored. Additionally, both leaders are expected to discuss expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, innovation, and research partnerships.

Trade and investment will also be key priorities. Modi has emphasized strengthening collaboration in agriculture, water technology, and startup ecosystems to boost bilateral economic growth.

Balancing Regional Dynamics

The Modi Israel Visit 2026 comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, including ongoing U.S.-Iran friction and Israel’s evolving security landscape. While deepening ties with Israel, India continues to maintain its diplomatic support for Palestinian aspirations, reflecting its balanced foreign policy approach in the region.

New Delhi appears to be positioning itself as a strategic yet neutral partner, expanding engagement without aligning rigidly within regional rivalries.

Strengthening People-to-People Ties

Modi is also scheduled to meet members of the Indian community in Israel, reinforcing grassroots connections and cultural goodwill between the two nations.

Analysts believe the visit could open a new chapter in India-Israel relations focused on security innovation, economic growth, and technological advancement. If the Knesset address proceeds smoothly, it could mark a defining milestone in the evolving partnership between the two countries.

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