Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar expressed deep admiration for India during his first official visit. He described the nation as a global superpower in a television interview. This visit follows Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s trip just two months earlier.
Sa’ar highlighted that a defence memorandum of understanding is currently in development between the two countries. This agreement would strengthen their strategic partnership significantly. The minister’s packed schedule reflected the importance both nations place on this relationship.
He recalled how Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first world leader to call Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu after the Hamas terror attacks. India stood by Israel during that difficult time. This solidarity created a strong bond between the nations.
Sa’ar’s visit included meetings with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Observers noted his visit received more public attention than the finance minister’s earlier trip. The increased visibility suggests growing comfort in displaying this partnership.
Diplomats believe New Delhi feels less need to downplay its relationship with Israel now that a ceasefire has been reached. This shift represents a significant evolution in India’s foreign policy approach. The public nature of Sa’ar’s visit underscores this change.
Former Indian ambassador Talmiz Ahmad explained India’s strategic calculation. After observing Arab nations working with Israel, India concluded there would be no significant Muslim backlash. Therefore, New Delhi sees no need to be discreet about the relationship.
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar emphasized the strategic partnership’s real meaning. He noted both nations have stood together in testing times and built high trust. Their shared challenge from terrorists makes cooperation essential.
Jaishankar invited Israel to India’s AI Impact Summit next year. He hinted that talks about the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor might resume. This corridor was considered stalled after Hamas attacks.
The growing warmth between India and Israel raises questions about traditional stances. Some wonder if India is shifting its position on Palestine. Experts clarify that India maintains its balanced approach.
Professor Khinvraj Jangid explained India’s consistent position. He referenced Jaishankar’s statement at the Berlin security summit. India stands with Israel on terrorism and with Palestinians on the two-state solution.
Jangid traced the historical context of India-Israel relations. During the Cold War, India kept distance due to Arab pressure. With that pressure reduced, there’s no reason for distance now.
Israel has always viewed India with fondness. The first Israeli prime minister kept Gandhi’s picture in his bedroom. The relationship developed fully after the Cold War ended.
The partnership extends beyond defence cooperation. Close people-to-people ties form its foundation. Both nations recognize their shared values and common interests.
Israel’s obligations to America influenced its international partnerships. With restrictions on defence sales to China, India became Israel’s most important partner outside Western and Arab worlds.
Potential benefits of Netanyahu’s visit require careful assessment. While it would boost his domestic image, India might not gain tangible advantages. The existing cooperation already covers multiple areas.