Modi to visit Israel amid US-Iran tensions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel on Wednesday (February 25) for a two-day visit. Both countries see the visit as an opportunity to deepen bilateral ties, at a time when regional concerns over the possibility of a military conflict between the US and Iran are growing.

Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel in 2017, when he and right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu walked barefoot on the beach in the northern port city of Haifa.

Nearly nine years later, both are still in power in their respective countries. The two leaders, who describe themselves as friends, are expected to discuss artificial intelligence (AI) and defense cooperation. The talks come at a time when Israel is keen to boost its military exports.

An Israeli government official said the visit would pave the way for new partnerships and cooperation in many areas. Another foreign ministry official said the bilateral relationship was on the verge of a significant development.

Modi is expected to address the Knesset, Israel's parliament, and lay a wreath at the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial.

US military preparations for Iran

Modi's visit comes as the US has deployed a large fleet near Iran's coast, a move seen as a prelude to a possible attack amid a stalemate in talks over Tehran's nuclear programme. The Pentagon has sent an aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean, which is heading towards Israel's coast.

If the US attacks Iran, Iran could retaliate by attacking US military installations in Israel and the Gulf Arab states, where millions of Indians live and work and send huge amounts of foreign currency home every year.

Kabir Taneja of the Indian think-tank Observer Research Foundation said New Delhi does not want any conflict in the region. “I am sure that such a message has been given in the past and will be given on this visit as well,” he said.

An Israeli Foreign Ministry official said that regional issues are also likely to be discussed during the visit.

In a recent cabinet meeting, Netanyahu referred to India as part of a future “axis of like-minded countries.” “Our cooperation can bear great fruit and will certainly ensure our stability and future,” he said.

Taneja also said that while India is interested in buying Israeli military equipment, New Delhi will be hesitant to join any formal alliance due to its long-standing policy of non-alignment in international affairs.

Source- Geo News