Thank you Israel, for the warmth and affection.
Deeply touched that Prime Minister Netanyahu and Mrs. Netanyahu personally came to the airport to see me off.
Confident that the India–Israel partnership will continue to reach new heights in the years to come.@netanyahu pic.twitter.com/TgGsIsXOJY

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2026

Israel's Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, said that the first round of the negotiations on the free trade agreement with India was concluded two days ago and that the deal could be wrapped by 2026.

India and Israel agree there is 'no place for terrorism in the world', Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday in a strong joint statement with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he owes India "a great personal debt" because he met his wife Sara in an Indian restaurant in Israel's Tel Aviv. He said the "food was unbelievable".

At the joint press meet, PM Modi said a mutual India-Israel FTA will be concluded soon.

"We will work to conclude a mutually beneficial free trade agreement," PM Modi said.

India and Israel have signed an agreement to link their UPI systems, enhancing financial connectivity between the two nations.

#WATCH | Jerusalem, Israel: India and Israel sign MoUs in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
(Video: ANI/DD) pic.twitter.com/S60QDy7ufa

— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2026

"For the first time, I think our 1st or 2nd date was in an Indian restaurant in Tel Aviv.It was Vienna Pascana, and I have to tell you.

First of all, the food was unbelievable and Sarah was introduced to it for the first time, so it was a great first date, not only with the food, the date was excellent too, so obviously I'm indebted to you [PM Modi].

These are my children, and I want to tell you how deeply and from the heart we feel both our personal friendship and the friendship between our governments and our peoples", Netanyahu said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held wide-ranging talks with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, focusing on boosting bilateral ties in areas of defence and security, trade, technology and agriculture.

The two sides are also expected to deliberate on the prevailing situation in the Middle East.

India and Israel are also likely to discuss the implementation of the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and cooperation under the framework of I2U2 (India-Israel-UAE-USA).

(PTI)

“Thank you, Israeli President, Isaac Herzog, for the warm welcome. The honor my delegation and I have received in Israel reflects the deep bond between our peoples. India-Israel ties, strong across science, innovation, education, water management, and agriculture, can contribute significantly to global growth, and India continues to adopt Israel’s best practices with excellent results. I warmly invite you to visit not just Delhi but other parts of India,” said PM Narendra Modi said during a bilateral meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog says, “I believe India is an essential part of the Middle East’s future, just as the Middle East is vital to India’s future. India’s remarkable economic growth is attracting global attention, and its young people are making an impact worldwide through their innovation and talent. I see a golden opportunity for Indian and Israeli universities to collaborate and share knowledge for future generations. I encourage Indian students to study in Israel and Israeli students to study in India, as stronger connectivity between our nations can positively shape the broader geostrategic landscape.”

PM Modi at Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem, honours Holocaust martyrs pic.twitter.com/OosSmRXy7X

— NDTV (@ndtv) February 26, 2026

Israel conferred PM Modi with the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal”-- highest honour of the Israeli Parliament, in recognition of his leadership in strengthening and deepening the strategic ties between India and Israel.

A proud moment for India. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji has been awarded the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal”, the highest honour of the Israeli Parliament, in recognition of his outstanding leadership in strengthening and deepening the strategic ties between India… pic.twitter.com/4nRo8ix9o5

— SADANAND SHET TANAVADE (@ShetSadanand) February 26, 2026

Israel's chief economist at the Ministry of Finance, Shmuel Abramzon, has said the relationship between New Delhi and Jerusalem is entering a decisive phase -- one focused less on symbolism and more on delivery.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day visit to Israel, Israeli Economy and Industry Minister Nir Barkat struck an upbeat, calling India "a gateway to Asia" and predicting that a long-awaite India-Israel FTA could be signed soon.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu pointed out that PM Modi's saffron pocket square perfectly matched his wife's orange jacket.

PM Modi, in an address to Israel's parliament, the Knesset, said that defence relations between the nations are an "important pillar" of the partnership.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome from Israeli lawmakers on Wednesday at the start of a two-day visit as he promised “friendship, respect and partnership” with Israel at a time when its world standing has suffered because of the war in Gaza. “Let us ensure that the friendship between India and Israel remains a source of strength in an uncertain world,” PM Modi said in an address to the Knesset, Israel's Parliament, where he received a standing ovation from lawmakers after a 30-minute speech.

The enthusiastic greeting underscored how much closer Israel-India relations have grown under PM Modi, whose embrace of Israel has marked a shift in the foreign policy of India which has historically supported the Palestinians. India did not establish full diplomatic ties with Israel until 1992 and PM Modi's visit aims to strengthen security, economic and technological cooperation between the two countries.

The Indian leader was greeted at the airport with a hug from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who later introduced PM Modi to the Knesset as “Narendra, my dear friend.”

“I’ve never been more moved than by your visit here with us,” said Netanyahu, calling PM Modi “a great friend of Israel, a great champion of the Israel-India alliance and a great leader on the world stage.”

The visit is likely to give Israel a boost of international support after seeing relations with many of its allies deteriorate since the war in Gaza began in October 2023.

Ambassador of Israel to India, Reuven Azar, described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit as "a peak in our relations," saying the leaders held extensive talks, focusing on upgrading defence cooperation and expanding collaboration into emerging technologies.

Speaking to ANI, Azar said, "This was really a peak in our relations... The people of Israel are excited to have Prime Minister Modi here. He spoke from his heart in the name of the Indian people... Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke with Prime Minister Modi at the airport, and now they are dining together. It was a long conversation. An opportunity to discuss an upgrade to our defence relationship and the expansion of our relations into new spheres, such as emerging technologies."

"We are looking forward to the expanded meeting tomorrow, to announce the agreements... One of the main things we want to do in the economic field, not only to sign a free trade agreement that we are negotiating as we speak, but also to connect the financial sectors of both countries," he said.

Further, Former Knesset member Pnina Rosenblum praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his speech, calling him "the greatest Prime Minister" and lauding his strong support and affection for Israel, while highlighting the close business ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told lawmakers in Jerusalem on Wednesday that India stands "firmly" with Israel following Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023. 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.

"I... carry with me the deepest condolences of the people of India for every life lost and for every family whose world was shattered in the barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7," PM Modi said in the Knesset, the Israeli parliament.

"We feel your pain, we share your grief. India stands with Israel firmly with full conviction in this moment and beyond."

In his speech, PM Modi did not explicitly mention the tens of thousands of Palestinians killed in Gaza during the more than two-year war between Israel and Hamas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Israel on a high-profile visit, marking his second trip to Tel Aviv after the historic 2017 visit. Describing PM Modi as "more than a friend", his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday 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."

"Great Friend Of Israel": Israel PM Netanyahu's Praise For PM Modi pic.twitter.com/rxo5hksMJB

— NDTV (@ndtv) February 25, 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed the Knesset, Israel's parliament-- a rare honour that underscores the political warmth between the two democracies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trademark "hugplomacy", where he embraces world leaders in his trademark hug, has once again drawn international attention after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised what he called the famous "Modi hug".

Israel Parliament confers "Speaker of the Knesset Medal" upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is the highest honour of the Knesset. 

The medal is being conferred in recognition of PM's exceptional contribution - through his personal leadership - to strengthen strategic relations between India and Israel.

Affirming India's close ties with Israel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday noted that he was born on the same day that India formally recognised Israel and said he is very happy returning to a land to which he has always felt drawn.

Addressing the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, PM Modi deepest condolences to the people of Israel for every life lost in the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023.

He said countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action, because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere.

"It is a privilege and honour for me to stand before this dfistinguished house. I do so as the Prime Minister of India and also as a representative of one ancient civilisation addressing another. I bring with me the greetings of 1.4 billion Indians and a message of friendship, respect and partnership," PM Modi said.

"Nine years ago, I had the good fortune to be the first PM of India to visit Israel, and I'm very happy to be here again, returning to a land to which I always felt drawn. After all, I was on the same day that India formally recognised Israel, September 17, 1950," he added.

(ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to the Israeli parliament Knesset -- a first by an Indian Prime Minister -- re-affirmed that India stands with Israel in its battle against terror. 

Drawing a parallel between the Hamas attack in Israel and the 26/11 attack in Mumbai, PM Modi said, "We feel your pain. We share your grief. India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction in this moment and beyond".

"The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region", PM Modi said at the Knesset.

He also said that India supports the Gaza peace initiative and that it "holds promise for a just and durable peace for the region".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday reflected on the 'Modi Hug', asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's personal embrace is something special.

"Earlier today, my wife Sara and I greeted you at the airport. And, just as you came down the steps, we embraced each other. Because Prime Minister Modi's personal embrace is something special. It's called the 'Modi Hug'. It's well known around the world," Netanyahu said while addressing Israeli Parliamentarians during the official reception ceremony for PM Modi at the Knesset.

"And when you hug someone closely, truly, you know it's not an act. It's a real thing. It's called the 'Modi Hug'. So, I want to return the hug here from every single one of the Knesset members. And it's not only an indication of the personal relations, of the personal friendship between us, but it really reflects the warmth of the tie between our two peoples," the Israeli PM added.

(IANS)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel on Wednesday to a warm welcome from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara Netanyahu, who were on the tarmac to receive him at the airport.

"India stands with Israel with full conviction, in this moment and beyond," PM Modi tells Israeli parliament.

He said that "India has also endured the pain of terrorism" and remembered the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the innocent lives lost.

PM Modi reiterated that India has a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism.

PM Modi in his address to Knesset thanked Israel for granting him the "privilege and honour" to address Israeli Parliament and said that he brings greetings of 1.4 billion Indians and a message of "friendship, respect and partnership".

Members of the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, on Wednesday gave a standing ovation and a huge round of applause to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he arrived at Israel's House of Representatives to give a landmark address - the first-ever by an Indian PM.

"You stood next to Israel, you stood by Israel, you stood for Israel, you stood for the truth. Thank you, my friend", Netanyhu said, referring to India's response to the October 7 attack in 2023.

Israel Parliament Echoes With Modi Chants Ahead Of PM's Address https://t.co/M9ZuVwKgtT pic.twitter.com/gq7Z0KlWf6

— NDTV (@ndtv) February 25, 2026

PM Narendra Modi signing the guests’ book at the Israeli parliament, the ⁦Knesset ⁦@KnessetENG⁩ pic.twitter.com/jm8YapQaS1

— 🇮🇱 Reuven Azar (@ReuvenAzar) February 25, 2026

#WATCH | Jerusalem, Israel: With 'Modi, Modi' chants, PM Narendra Modi receives a standing ovation at the Knesset, Israeli parliament
(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/K5L0tqyMEF

— ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2026

Deeply touched by the warm welcome extended by my friend, PM Netanyahu. May the India-Israel friendship continue to soar higher! 🇮🇳 🇮🇱@netanyahu pic.twitter.com/zl6Flj9wpz

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 25, 2026

The historic visit of PM Modi to Israel is being marked by poignant cultural milestones, highlighting the deep human and artistic connections that bridge the two nations.

Among the most anticipated events is a special musical performance that brings together international talent and a remarkable story of resilience from the Indian diaspora.

In an interaction with ANI, the Manager of the renowned Shalva band expressed the group's immense pride in being part of the official reception.

"I am the manager of this band. We are so excited to perform in front of PM Modi. We are excited for us and for Dina," the manager stated, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the occasion.

(ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday received a warm and vibrant welcome as he arrived in Israel for a two-day state visit, marked by colourful Indian cultural performances and an enthusiastic reception from the Indian diaspora.

Cultural showcases featuring music and dance from different parts of India were staged to commemorate PM Modi's arrival, highlighting the rich diversity of Indian heritage.

Shortly after his arrival, the official account of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the visit "historic" and shared snippets from the arrival.

(ANI)

From pearl millet rotis to freshly prepared hummus and falafel, a unique blend of Indian and Israeli flavours is being readied in Jerusalem for Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he undertakes his two-day state visit to Israel.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who arrived in Tel Aviv for his February 25 to February 26 state visit at the invitation of his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, is set to be treated to a specially curated spread featuring delicacies from his home state of Gujarat as well as traditional Israeli cuisine.

Renowned restaurateur and Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award recipient Reena Pushkarna is spearheading the culinary preparations, crafting a menu that reflects both PM Modi's Gujarati roots and Israel's iconic cuisine.

"We have prepared Gujarati food. And we got special permission to make this because last time I couldn't make much Gujarati food," Pushkarna told ANI.

(ANI)

The streets of Tel Aviv were filled with a sense of profound pride and shared heritage as members of the Indian diaspora and local residents gathered to celebrate the historic arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The atmosphere was a testament to the deep-rooted cultural ties and the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, brought to life by the personal stories of those whose lives bridge India and Israel.

Speaking to ANI, a resident of Israel highlighted the strengthening bilateral relationship and their personal connection to Indian culture.

"I took part in the Know India contest. The Jewish community of India is spread all over. Israel and India are now at a juncture of increasing treaties and contacts in general," the resident said.

Echoing the historic significance of the visit, Ravita, a member of the Indian diaspora, spoke about the vision for the future and the milestone moment.

"I come from the Indian Jewish community. India is now gearing towards 'Viksit Bharat'. He (PM Modi) is the first Indian Prime Minister to walk on Israeli soil," she stated.

(ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a private meeting with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu at the Ben-Gurion International Airport on Wednesday soon after his arrival in the country on a two-day State Visit with the two leaders discussing a wide range of subjects aimed at boosting bilateral ties.

"This is a bond of real friendship. Great friend, my great friend," Netanyahu is seen saying while meeting PM Modi in a video shared by the Israeli Prime Minister's office.

"Had an excellent meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Expressed gratitude to him for the warm welcome earlier in the day. It is a delight to be back in Israel after 9 years. We discussed a wide range of subjects aimed at boosting bilateral ties. Sectors such as technology, water management, agriculture, talent partnership and more offer immense scope for close collaboration. We also discussed key developments in the region," PM Modi posted on X after the meeting.

(IANS)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Israel on February 25 is being widely viewed as a milestone moment in India-Israel relations, underscoring growing strategic trust, deepening economic cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Tel Aviv on Wednesday to a warm welcome, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu receiving him at the airport.

The warmth of ties was evident as the two leaders hugged each other.

A small yet striking detail drew attention as the leaders interacted with each other. PM Netanyahu pointed to the matching colour of the pocket square of Prime Minister Modi and the outfit of Sara Netanyahu. "That's saffron," PM Modi said with a smile.

(ANI)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday praised PM Narendra Modi's strong leadership as the Indian leader touched down in Tel Aviv on a two-day State Visit to the country. In a warm and special gesture, Netanyahu and First Lady Sara Netanyahu welcomed PM Modi at the Ben-Gurion airport during a memorable ceremony.

"You are a great leader," said Netanyahu after the two leaders exchanged a warm hug at the tarmac.

The Israeli PM also engaged in an animated conversation with PM Modi, highlighting that the colour of PM Modi's pocket square matches Sara's saffron dress perfectly.

Prime Minister Modi later said that he is honoured to have been received by Israeli counterpart and his wife at the airport in Tel Aviv and is looking forward to holding talks and fruitful outcomes that strengthen the friendship between two nations.

(IANS)

Israeli Prime Minister's Office on Wednesday stated that PM Benjamin Netanyahu and PM Narendra Modi's deep personal relationship influences the steady relations between both nations.

This marks PM Modi's second visit to Israel following his 2017 trip, and Netanyahu's reciprocal visit to India.

"At the invitation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving today for another historic visit to Israel, following his previous visit to the country in 2017 and Prime Minister Netanyahu's reciprocal visit to India," a statement by Netanyahu's Office in a post on X said.

(ANI)

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for Israel, NDTV can confirm that the next big defence deal between New Delhi and Tel Aviv is likely to be for six mid-air refuelling aircraft for the Indian Air Force.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Israel on February 25-26, 2026, comes at a moment when defence ties between the two countries are more consequential than ever.

Historically, India maintained a relatively quiet profile in West Asia, often viewed as a passive observer. However, today, this dynamic has shifted dramatically.

India, according to Hassan-Nahoum, is not only a key trade partner for Israel but also a nation with shared values and a common vision centred on innovation, growth and resilience.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived in Tel Aviv for a two-day state visit to Israel at the invitation of his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, aimed at further strengthening the "robust and multifaceted Strategic Partnership" between the two nations.

On arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, Modi received a Guard of Honour. Netanyahu, accompanied by his wife Sara Netanyahu, personally welcomed the Prime Minister, reflecting the close personal rapport shared by the two leaders. The two Prime Ministers exchanged a warm hug upon arrival.

Israeli Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, was also present among those receiving PM Modi.

(ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived in Tel Aviv, Israel, for his two-day state visit at the invitation of his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu, aimed at further deepening the "robust and multifaceted Strategic Partnership" between the two countries.

PM Modi, earlier today, embarked on his state visit to Israel from February 25 to February 26 at the invitation of Netanyahu.

Netanyahu, accompanied by his wife Sara Netanyahu, personally received Prime Minister Modi at the Ben Gurion Airport, reflecting the close personal rapport shared by the two leaders. The two Prime Ministers exchanged a warm hug upon arrival.

(ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived here on a two-day visit during which he will hold meetings with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, address the parliament and interact with the Indian diaspora.

Modi was received by PM Netanyahu and his wife Sara at the airport. The two leaders hugged each other and exchanged pleasantries.

The prime minister was given a ceremonial red carpet welcome.

(PTI)

Pakistan is rattled by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's pitch for a "hexagon of alliances" with India, with Islamabad calling it an "anti-Muslim Ummah bloc."