Portrait of Benjamin Netanyahu
Politician · person
Wikipedia (opens in new tab)

Benjamin Netanyahu on Narendra Modi

Close ally and friend (strong)

TL;DR

Benjamin Netanyahu regards Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a great friend with whom he shares an extremely strong and admirable bilateral relationship.

Key Points

  • He thanked Prime Minister Modi for standing with Israel following Iranian strikes in March 2026.

  • Both leaders praised each other in grand, civilisational terms during an address to the Israeli Knesset.

  • Netanyahu emphasized the personal rapport between them, noting their "enormous friendship" and mutual admiration.

Summary

Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a "great friend" for his consistent support of Israel, particularly during periods of Middle East tension. This high regard is rooted in a shared understanding of civilisational links between India and Israel, which has translated into strong diplomatic and personal rapport between the two leaders. He specifically thanked Modi for standing with Israel and for the "enormous friendship of the people of India," noting the deep admiration and affection felt by Israelis for India.

This positive relationship is characterized by mutual praise and the fostering of deep ties across defence, trade, and people-to-people connections. The leaders have publicly lauded each other during significant diplomatic events, such as addressing the Israeli Knesset, reinforcing the strategic and personal bond that underpins the India-Israel partnership. Netanyahu’s consistent framing of Modi as a staunch ally underscores the importance he places on the relationship for Israeli interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Benjamin Netanyahu views Narendra Modi as a "great friend" and a staunch supporter of Israel. His position is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing a strong personal and strategic bond between the two leaders.

Yes, the Israeli Prime Minister explicitly thanked Prime Minister Modi for standing with Israel during recent Middle East tensions. He noted this support in a statement after Iranian strikes.

He stated that the relationship is characterized by deep ties in trade and defence, alongside an enormous friendship felt by the people of India. Netanyahu highlighted the admiration felt for India in Israel.