Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Israel (February 25–26, 2026)

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Israel (February 25–26, 2026) is being framed by both nations as a "historic leap" that elevates their relationship to a "Special Strategic Partnership." This visit is particularly significant as it marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister will address the Knesset (the Israeli Parliament).

Based on current diplomatic signals and the formal agenda, here is a detailed analysis of the progress likely to be made:

1. Defence and Security: Upgrading the "Anchor"

Defence remains the cornerstone of the relationship. The visit is expected to move beyond the traditional "buyer-seller" dynamic toward a "Joint Development and Production" model.

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• Security Pact Update: Expect the announcement of an updated security arrangement focusing on emerging threats.
• High-Tech Collaboration: Focused agreements on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in defense, Quantum Computing, and Cybersecurity are on the table.
• Unmanned Systems: Following the 10th Joint Working Group meeting (Feb 24, 2026), there will likely be new protocols for countering the use of drones and UAVs for terrorism.

2. Trade and Economy: The FTA Push

A major highlight of this visit is the formal resumption of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.

• FTA Negotiations: The first round of talks for a new, balanced FTA began on February 23, 2026, in New Delhi, specifically timed to coincide with this visit.
• Diversification: While trade is currently dominated by diamonds and chemicals ($3.62 billion in FY 2024-25), the visit aims to pivot toward electronics, medical devices, and high-tech manufacturing.
• Strategic Investments: Building on the Adani Group’s acquisition of the Haifa Port, further "infrastructure-for-technology" deals are likely to be explored.

3. Innovation and Technology: "I4F" and Beyond

The visit will place a heavy emphasis on the India-Israel Industrial R&D and Innovation Fund (I4F).

• Joint Start-up Ecosystem: An innovation event is planned where both leaders will likely announce new grants for start-ups working on global challenges.
• Science & Tech: Agreements on semiconductor research and space exploration (specifically satellite components) are expected to be signed.

4. Agriculture and Water Management: The "Blue-Green" Economy

Israel’s expertise in "making the desert bloom" continues to be a primary area of interest for India’s food security.

• Centres of Excellence (CoE): Plans to expand the network of 43 existing CoEs into new sectors like Fisheries and Aquaculture were signaled in January 2026 and will likely be formalized.
• Water Management: Scaling up Israeli drip-irrigation and desalination technologies for Indian states facing water stress is a high priority.

5. Geopolitical and Regional Strategy

The visit occurs against a complex regional backdrop.

• I2U2 Integration: The leaders are expected to discuss the progress of the I2U2 Group (India, Israel, UAE, USA), particularly regarding food corridors and renewable energy projects.
• Counter-Terrorism: A joint statement is expected to reaffirm a "zero-tolerance" policy, specifically referencing recent terror incidents in both nations (Oct 7, 2023, in Israel and April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, India).

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Summary Table of Expected Outcomes

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Sector	Likely Outcome
Political	Formalization of a "Special Strategic Partnership" and a historic Knesset address.
Trade	Roadblock-clearing for the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Defence	MoUs on AI-driven security and joint production of advanced systems.
Agriculture	New Centres of Excellence specifically for fisheries and "Blue Food" security.
Tech	Launch of the next phase of the India-Israel Innovation Fund (I4F).

Would you like me to look into the specific details of the proposed India-Israel Free Trade Agreement and which sectors stand to gain the most?