NEW DELHI ,26 Feb 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Israel on a high-profile visit, marking his second trip to Tel Aviv after the historic 2017 visit. PM Modi also met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a two-day visit aimed at deepening trade and defence ties that has drawn criticism at home.
Describing PM Modi as “more than a friend”, Netanyahu showered praises on the Indian leader and thanked him for standing by Israel’s side after the dastardly attack of October 7, 2023. PM Modi was among the first world leaders to condemn the deadly attacks by Hamas in which almost 1,200 Israelis were killed and some 250 kidnapped.
“Prime ministers and heads of state come to the Knesset and it’s always an exciting moment for all of us. But my dear friend Narendra, I’m especially moved by your visit. You are a great friend of Israel and a great leader at the world stage….Narendra, you are more than a friend. You are a brother,” an emotional Netanyahu said at the beginning of his speech.
The personal chemistry between the two leaders has been much publicised in Israel, and it was clearly on display in the Knesset too with long hugs and standing ovations from the assembled crowd and lawmakers. “Today at the airport we embraced each other. It’s called a Modi hug. I want to return a hug here from every Knesset member. It represents the warmth between us,” Netanyahu said.
Sharing a photo with his Israeli counterpart, Modi said on social media, “After my Knesset address, PM Netanyahu and I are on the way to an exhibition which showcases strides made in the world of technology.”
Picture credit social media
