Wed Feb 25 20:39:55 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Modi Defends Israel’s Gaza War in Knesset Address, Affirming ‘Vital’ Partnership
The Story:
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi staunchly defended Israel’s actions in the Gaza war during an address to the Knesset on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, affirming India’s unwavering support for Israel despite international accusations of genocide. This marked the first time an Indian leader has addressed the Israeli parliament. Modi’s visit, and his strong backing of Israel, have drawn criticism from within India, with some political figures urging him to address the deaths of children in Gaza and highlighting India’s traditional support for Palestine.
Key Points:
* Narendra Modi addressed the Knesset, expressing India’s “full conviction” in standing with Israel.
* Modi condemned the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, calling it “barbaric.”
* He expressed “strong support” for the UN Security Council’s Gaza peace initiative.
* He emphasized the “vital” partnership between India and Israel for trade, security, and technological collaboration.
* Trade between India and Israel stood at $3.9 billion in 2024, largely based on defense and security.
* India is Israel’s largest arms buyer, spending $20.5 billion on Israeli weapons between 2020 and 2024.
* Criticism arose within India, with some opposing Modi’s support for Israel given the conflict in Gaza.
Critical Analysis:
The provided context reveals a pattern of strengthening ties between India and Israel, particularly in defense and security. The mention of Poland charging ex-intel chiefs for using Israel’s Pegasus spyware could indicate potential future scrutiny of India’s reliance on Israeli technology, especially if human rights concerns are raised. Rahul Gandhi targeting Modi over the trip to Israel, trade deal with the U.S., and bringing up the “Epstein Files” suggests that Modi’s political opponents are using this alliance to attack his domestic standing and international credibility.
Key Takeaways:
* Modi’s strong support for Israel signals a significant shift in India’s foreign policy, moving away from its traditional pro-Palestinian stance.
* Defense and security ties are the cornerstone of the India-Israel relationship.
* Modi’s stance on Israel is domestically controversial, providing ammunition for political opponents.
* International scrutiny of Israel’s actions in Gaza may indirectly impact India due to their close relationship.
* The partnership is framed as contributing to global stability and prosperity, but this is contested given the ongoing conflict and criticisms.
Impact Analysis:
The long-term impact of Modi’s visit and India’s unwavering support for Israel could be multifaceted:
- Geopolitical Realignment: Reinforces a strategic alliance with potential implications for regional power dynamics in the Middle East and South Asia.
- Economic Growth: Further strengthens trade and investment, particularly in defense, technology, and security sectors.
- Domestic Political Ramifications: Could alienate segments of the Indian population and fuel political opposition, particularly if the Gaza conflict continues.
- International Relations: May strain India’s relationships with countries traditionally supportive of Palestine.
- Technological Dependence: Increases India’s reliance on Israeli technology, potentially raising concerns about security and surveillance.
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