Jerusalem / New Delhi: Israel is gearing up for a grand state welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he arrives in the country on 25 February 2026 for a two-day state visit aimed at strengthening the multifaceted partnership between India and Israel. This visit marks Mr. Modi’s second trip to Israel in nine years, following his historic 2017 visit.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to personally receive Mr. Modi on arrival. The leaders are slated to hold extensive talks covering defence, innovation, economic cooperation, and regional security.
Parliament Illuminated in Indian Tricolour
In a symbolic gesture reflecting the warmth of bilateral ties, Israel’s parliament the Knesset was illuminated in the colours of the Indian flag (saffron, white, and green) on the eve of Mr. Modi’s arrival. Photos shared by officials show the iconic parliamentary building bathed in the Indian tricolour as a tribute to the visiting leader and the deepening friendship between the two democracies.
Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana posted images on social media highlighting the illumination, emphasizing the respect and honour Israel accords the Indian prime minister.
Political All-Round Welcome and Praise
Ahead of the visit, Israeli political figures have openly welcomed Mr. Modi. Opposition leader Yair Lapid described him as a “true friend” of Israel, underlining that the India-Israel relationship transcends mere diplomacy and reflects a deeper bond of trust and camaraderie. Lapid’s remarks accompany widespread anticipation across the political spectrum for Modi’s upcoming address to the Knesset.
Israeli media and social platforms have also reflected excitement over the historic nature of the visit, with many describing the color-lit parliament as a symbol of friendship and mutual respect.
Historic Agenda and Strategic Ties
Mr. Modi’s agenda in Israel is packed with high-profile engagements:
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Address to the Knesset: Mr. Modi will speak before Israel’s parliament a rare honour for a foreign leader, reinforcing diplomatic goodwill.
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Innovation and Technology Events: He is expected to participate in events highlighting Israeli innovation, especially in areas such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
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Holocaust Remembrance Visit: A solemn visit to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial Centre, will be part of the itinerary, underlining shared respect for history and human dignity.
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Bilateral Talks: The two leaders will discuss a broad agenda including defence cooperation, trade, and potential agreements on advanced defence systems and strategic technologies.
Diplomatic commentators note that this visit aims to upgrade the long-standing strategic partnership between India and Israel to a “special strategic partnership” a further step in mutual trust and collaboration across sectors.
Deepening Strategic Partnership
Since establishing full diplomatic relations in 1992, India and Israel have steadily expanded cooperation in defence, technology, agriculture, and innovation. Israel is an important supplier of advanced defence systems to India, while India represents a significant market and strategic partner in Asia.
The upcoming agreements and joint initiatives expected during this visit reflect a shared commitment to confronting global challenges, enhancing security cooperation, and fostering economic growth strengthening the alliance between two resilient democracies.
PM Modi’s visit comes at a pivotal moment for India-Israel relations, symbolized by the Knesset’s illumination in the Indian tricolour and warm political welcome. The trip underscores deepening strategic ties and plans for cooperative progress across defence, technology and diplomacy.
