“Namaste”: Israel Media Welcomes PM Modi, Calls It A New Chapter

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun his two-day visit to Israel, and a leading Israeli newspaper welcomed him with the headline “Namaste, Two Ancient Nations Open a New Chapter.” The visit focuses on deepening the India-Israel strategic partnership across defence, technology, trade, and innovation. This is his second trip after the historic 2017 visit that reshaped ties between the two countries.

Why This Visit Feels Different

This is not just another diplomatic stop. It comes after nearly nine years without a highest-level visit between the two nations. That gap makes this moment heavier. More symbolic. More serious.

The Jerusalem Post placed a large photograph of PM Modi on its front page. It described the relationship as built on trust, history, and political chemistry. But it also said the time has come to move beyond words and scale up action.

That tone says a lot.

From 2017 To 2026: A Shift In Momentum

Back in July 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel. When he landed at Ben Gurion Airport, it was seen as a diplomatic breakthrough. Decades of hesitation had ended.

During that visit, he had called it a groundbreaking chapter in bilateral relations. Defence, agriculture, and water management saw new energy.

Now in 2026, the focus is about taking that partnership higher. Not starting fresh, but expanding what already exists.

Modi And Netanyahu: Political Chemistry

PM Modi is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to review progress in strategic ties. They are expected to discuss defence cooperation, science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management, trade, and economy.

These are not small sectors. They shape national security and economic growth.

Netanyahu had once told Modi, “We’ve been waiting for you for a long time.” That warmth seems unchanged.

The visit is being described as both practical and symbolic. Leaders who stay in touch regularly now sit across the table again. That signals continuity.

High-Level Engagement With President Herzog

Apart from meeting Netanyahu, PM Modi will also meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog. That highlights the depth of engagement. It is not limited to one office or one leader.

Diplomacy works best when it runs across institutions. That appears to be the case here.

PM Modi is also set to address the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset. He will become the first Indian Prime Minister to do so. That moment carries symbolic weight. Democracies speaking to democracies.

Strategic Partnership In A Changing World

The Jerusalem Post described this visit as happening at a time of geopolitical shifts. The global order feels unstable in many regions. Strategic partnerships become more valuable in such times.

India and Israel have gradually built cooperation in defence technology, cybersecurity, farming innovation, and water solutions. These are areas where both countries share strengths.

The partnership is no longer limited. It has matured into a steady pillar of foreign policy for both sides.

Trade, Technology And Future Vision

The agenda reportedly includes expanding trade and deepening advanced technology collaboration. Innovation is a shared word in both capitals.

India’s Ambassador to Israel, J.P. Singh, called it a historic visit marking a new phase. A reset, some say. A refresh of direction.

PM Modi, in his departure statement, said he looks forward to exchanging views on regional and global issues. He also plans to meet members of the Indian diaspora in Israel, who have played a role in strengthening this bond quietly over years.

Two Ancient Civilizations, Modern Goals

India and Israel are often described as ancient civilizations with modern ambitions. That phrase sounds poetic, but it carries meaning.

Both countries value security. Both invest in technology. Both navigate complex regional realities.

This visit, as framed by Israeli media, is not just ceremonial. It is about setting new goals under an already strong framework.

Whether in defence labs, agricultural fields, or innovation hubs, cooperation seems likely to grow. For now, the headline says it best. Two ancient nations. A new chapter opening.