Article 2: India–Israel Relations
Why in News: The Prime Minister of India addressed the Knesset in February 2026, reaffirming India’s strategic partnership with Israel amid ongoing regional tensions following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.
Key Details
- India reiterated its zero tolerance policy against terrorism and expressed solidarity with Israel after the October 7 attack.
- Both nations are working towards expanding trade, defence, innovation, and technology cooperation.
- Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and implementation of the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) are underway.
- India supports peace efforts in West Asia, including diplomatic initiatives aligned with UN processes.
Historical Foundations of India–Israel Relations
- Civilizational Linkages (2,000+ Years)
- Trade links between India and Jewish communities date back over two millennia, as recorded in ancient texts like the Talmud.
- Jewish communities such as the Bene Israel (Maharashtra), Cochini Jews (Kerala), Baghdadi Jews (Mumbai/Kolkata), and Bnei Menashe (Northeast) lived in India without persecution.
- Recognition and Diplomatic Relations
- India formally recognised Israel on 17 September 1950, though full diplomatic relations were established only in 1992.
- The delay reflected India’s West Asia policy balancing Arab interests, domestic considerations, and Cold War geopolitics.
- Shared Military History
- Over 4,000 Indian soldiers died in the West Asian theatre during World War I, including the famous Battle of Haifa (1918).
- Lt Gen J.F.R. Jacob played a key role in the 1971 India-Pakistan War, reflecting Jewish contributions to Indian nation-building.
Strategic Partnership and Defence Cooperation
- Strategic Partnership (2017 Onwards)
- In 2017, India and Israel elevated ties to a Strategic Partnership, expanding cooperation in defence, agriculture, cybersecurity, and innovation.
- Prime ministerial visits in 2017 and 2026 symbolised deep political trust.
- Defence and Security Cooperation
- Israel is among India’s top defence suppliers, particularly in missile systems, UAVs, radar, and surveillance technologies.
- Joint cooperation enhances India’s capabilities in border security and counter-terror operations.
- Counter-Terrorism Collaboration
- Both countries follow a policy of zero tolerance toward terrorism.
- Intelligence sharing and homeland security cooperation have strengthened after global terror incidents such as 26/11 (Mumbai) and October 7, 2023.
Economic and Technological Cooperation
- Trade and Investment
- Bilateral trade has grown significantly since 1992, especially in diamonds, chemicals, defence equipment, and technology.
- The Bilateral Investment Treaty (2025) aims to provide predictability and investor confidence.
- Innovation and Technology
- Israel is globally recognised as a “Start-Up Nation”, leading in AI, cybersecurity, agri-tech, and water management.
- India, as the fastest-growing major economy, offers scale and market opportunities.
- Agricultural Cooperation
- Israeli drip irrigation and desert farming technologies have transformed agriculture in Indian states such as Haryana and Gujarat.
- Centres of Excellence under Indo-Israel Agricultural Projects promote sustainable farming practices.
West Asia Policy and Geopolitical Balance
- Balancing Diplomacy
- India maintains strong relations with Israel while also supporting the Palestinian cause and maintaining ties with Gulf nations.
- India supports a two-state solution and UN-backed peace initiatives.
- Abraham Accords and Regional Stability
- The Abraham Accords (2020) normalised Israel’s relations with several Arab countries, creating new diplomatic possibilities.
- India has welcomed regional normalisation efforts as conducive to economic connectivity.
- I2U2 and Multilateral Engagement
- India, Israel, UAE, and USA collaborate under the I2U2 grouping, focusing on infrastructure, food security, and technology.
- The partnership contributes to Indo-Pacific and West Asian stability.
Cultural and Civilizational Convergence
- Shared Democratic Values
- Both nations are democracies with independent judiciaries, vibrant media, and multi-party systems.
- Commitment to rule of law and pluralism forms the normative foundation of ties.
- Philosophical Parallels
- Jewish concept of Tikkun Olam (healing the world) parallels India’s Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (world as one family).
- Ethical governance and moral responsibility are shared civilizational themes.
- People-to-People Ties
- Indian-origin Jews in Israel and Indian caregivers and professionals in Israel strengthen grassroots bonds.
- Tourism, education exchange, and diaspora networks enhance mutual understanding.
Way Forward
- India–Israel relations reflect a convergence of strategic interests, shared democratic values, and historical goodwill. Going forward:
- Conclude the India–Israel FTA to boost trade diversification.
- Expand cooperation in cybersecurity, AI, water security, and defence innovation.
- Maintain diplomatic balance in West Asia by supporting peaceful dialogue and regional stability.
- Strengthen multilateral frameworks such as I2U2 for global governance cooperation.
- The India–Israel partnership is not merely bilateral; it contributes to counter-terrorism efforts, technological progress, and geopolitical stability, thereby strengthening the global democratic order.
EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR UPSC CSE
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following regarding India–Israel relations:
- India established full diplomatic relations with Israel in 1992.
- Israel is among India’s top defence suppliers.
- India does not support a two-state solution in West Asia.
Which of the statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: a
Descriptive Question
Q. “India’s partnership with Israel reflects strategic pragmatism balanced with principled diplomacy.” Discuss. (150 Words, 10 Marks)