Netanyahu Dials PM Modi to Discuss West Asia Peace, Strengthen India-Israel Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged in a telephone conversation on Wednesday, focusing on bilateral relations and the evolving situation in West Asia. During the call, both leaders expressed satisfaction with the current state of the India-Israel strategic partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties for mutual benefit.

A key focus of the discussion was the pursuit of peace and stability in West Asia. PM Modi reiterated India's support for efforts aimed at achieving a just and durable peace in the region, including the early implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan. This aligns with India's longstanding position favoring dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful resolution of conflicts. In October, PM Modi welcomed the agreement between Israel and Hamas on the first phase of the Gaza Peace Plan, recognizing Prime Minister Netanyahu's leadership and expressing hope for further progress toward regional stability.

The two leaders also strongly condemned terrorism and reaffirmed their shared "zero-tolerance approach" towards terrorism in all its forms. This emphasis on counterterrorism cooperation is particularly significant amid heightened global concerns over violent extremism and instability in parts of West Asia.

Beyond the immediate regional issues, Modi and Netanyahu explored additional avenues to strengthen collaboration across various sectors, including defense, technology, trade, and innovation. They acknowledged the continued momentum in the India-Israel Strategic Partnership and reiterated their commitment to further enhance cooperation across areas of mutual interest.

Netanyahu's planned visit to India has been a topic of discussion, with the most recent postponement occurring last month. While a specific date is yet to be announced, both governments are exploring possibilities for a visit early next year.

The conversation underscores the strategic importance of the India-Israel partnership in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment. Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact as they monitor regional developments and work to advance bilateral cooperation.