JERUSALEM : Netanyahu, accompanied by his wife Sara Netanyahu, personally received PM Modi at Ben Gurion Airport. The two leaders shared a close embrace, reflecting the strong personal rapport that has defined their engagement over the years.

This marks PM Modi’s second visit to Israel, following his landmark 2017 trip, the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister. Ahead of his departure, PM Modi described the visit as an opportunity to further deepen bilateral ties.

“At the invitation of my dear friend Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, I will be undertaking a State Visit to Israel from 25–26 February 2026,” PM Modi said. He noted that India and Israel share a “robust and multifaceted Strategic Partnership” that has witnessed remarkable growth and dynamism in recent years, and expressed his eagerness to expand cooperation across key sectors.

In a symbolic gesture underscoring the significance of the visit, the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, was illuminated in the colours of the Indian flag. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana shared images of the tribute, stating that the illumination was in honour of the Indian Prime Minister’s visit. PM Modi acknowledged the gesture and said he looked forward to addressing Israeli lawmakers.

A key highlight of the visit will be PM Modi becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset, an occasion he described as a tribute to the strong parliamentary and democratic ties binding the two countries.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), discussions between PM Modi and Netanyahu will focus on strengthening cooperation across a broad range of sectors, including science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management, defence and security, trade and investment, as well as people-to-people ties. The leaders are also expected to exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

PM Modi is also scheduled to meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog, reflecting the high-level political engagement between the two democracies. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has also expressed eagerness to welcome the Indian Prime Minister during his visit.

Describing the visit as “historic,” Netanyahu referred to PM Modi as a “dear friend” and highlighted the growing strategic alignment between India and Israel. Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, he said the partnership represents a “powerful alliance between two global leaders” committed to innovation, security and stability.