Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed deep appreciation for India’s continued support of Israel during the recent conflict with Iran, describing New Delhi as one of Israel’s most dependable and influential democratic partners. His remarks underscored the growing strategic partnership between India and Israel and highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Netanyahu’s comments came while responding to observations made by US Vice President JD Vance regarding the role of allies during the Israel-Iran conflict. The Israeli leader emphasized that although the United States remains Israel’s closest and most powerful ally, India has consistently demonstrated strong diplomatic support, making it one of Israel’s most significant international partners.
Netanyahu Highlights India’s Consistent Backing
Speaking about the international response to the conflict, Netanyahu acknowledged that many countries had extended solidarity to Israel. However, he singled out India for what he described as exceptional and unwavering support.
According to Netanyahu, India has stood firmly with Israel during challenging times, reflecting the trust and strategic cooperation that have developed between the two nations over the past decade. He stated that India’s support carries considerable importance because it comes from the world’s largest democracy and a rapidly growing global power.
The Israeli Prime Minister noted that bilateral relations between India and Israel have expanded significantly across sectors including defence, technology, innovation, agriculture, cybersecurity, intelligence sharing, and trade.
Praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Netanyahu reserved special praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a leader with a clear vision who has strengthened ties between India and Israel.
He recalled the close engagement between the two leaders over the years, emphasizing that their governments have worked together to deepen cooperation on multiple fronts. Netanyahu suggested that the relationship has evolved beyond traditional diplomacy into a comprehensive strategic partnership driven by shared democratic values and mutual interests.
He also acknowledged Modi’s support following major security incidents involving Israel, noting that India’s position has consistently condemned terrorism while advocating peace and stability. 
Response to JD Vance’s Remarks
Netanyahu’s comments came amid discussions triggered by remarks from US Vice President JD Vance regarding the nature of Israel’s international alliances during the Iran conflict.
Clarifying his position, Netanyahu reiterated that the United States remains Israel’s foremost and most powerful ally, reflecting decades of strategic, military, and diplomatic cooperation. At the same time, he stressed that India occupies a unique place among Israel’s democratic partners because of its growing global influence and steadfast support.
His statement was widely interpreted as an effort to highlight the expanding role of India in Israel’s foreign policy while reaffirming the enduring importance of the US-Israel alliance.
Strengthening India-Israel Strategic Relations
Relations between India and Israel have witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. Cooperation has expanded well beyond defence procurement to include cutting-edge technology, artificial intelligence, agriculture, water management, renewable energy, healthcare, innovation, and startup ecosystems.
The two countries regularly engage in high-level diplomatic exchanges and collaborate on issues related to national security and counter-terrorism. Economic ties have also strengthened through increasing trade and investment, reflecting the broadening scope of bilateral cooperation.
Analysts believe that shared concerns over regional security, terrorism, and technological development have helped transform the partnership into one of the most significant strategic relationships in Asia and the Middle East.
India’s Balanced Foreign Policy
India has traditionally pursued a balanced foreign policy in the Middle East, maintaining strong relations with Israel while also preserving close diplomatic and economic ties with several Arab nations and Iran.
During periods of regional conflict, New Delhi has generally called for restraint, dialogue, and peaceful resolution while simultaneously condemning acts of terrorism and expressing concern over civilian casualties.
This balanced approach enables India to safeguard its strategic interests, energy security, and the welfare of millions of Indian citizens living and working across the Gulf region.
Growing Diplomatic Importance
Netanyahu’s latest remarks are being viewed as another indication of the growing diplomatic importance of India in global affairs. As India’s international profile continues to rise, its role in shaping discussions on regional security and international cooperation has become increasingly significant.
Observers believe that the public appreciation expressed by the Israeli Prime Minister reflects not only the strength of bilateral ties but also Israel’s recognition of India’s expanding influence on the global stage.
With both countries continuing to deepen collaboration across defence, technology, trade, innovation, and strategic security, the India-Israel partnership is expected to remain an important pillar of their foreign policy agendas in the years ahead.