Reiterating Delhi’s support for the Gaza peace process and joint resolve against terrorism, India and Israel on Tuesday underscored their commitment to a long-term strategic partnership during talks between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and visiting Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar in New Delhi.
Jaishankar said the India-Israel partnership “has real meaning,” built on trust and reliability through challenging times. Both ministers agreed to expand cooperation in counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, semiconductors, renewable energy, healthcare, and agriculture. They also discussed greater participation of Indian companies in Israel’s infrastructure projects and more mobility for Indian skilled workers.
Sa’ar, recalling that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first global leader to call Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after the October 7 Hamas attack, reiterated Israel’s stand that dismantling the “Hamas terror state” remains central to President Trump’s regional plan.
Jaishankar emphasized that terrorism poses a shared threat, calling for a global zero-tolerance approach. He added that India continues to support Gaza peace efforts and hopes they lead to a sustainable solution.
Sa’ar condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and described radical terror networks such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis as destabilizing forces in the Middle East that must be uprooted.
After meeting National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Sa’ar said both sides discussed ways to “confront common challenges,” especially terrorism, and reaffirmed the goal of building a lasting partnership.
Highlighting India’s growing capabilities in infrastructure, energy, and health, Jaishankar invited more Israeli engagement and confirmed Israel’s participation in India’s upcoming AI Impact Summit. He also noted the rising number of Indian workers in Israel and the need to address their welfare issues.
Sa’ar said Israel supports regional connectivity projects like I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE, US) and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, adding that both nations are “natural partners linking South Asia, West Asia, and Europe.”
This was Sa’ar’s first official visit to India, ahead of a likely trip by Prime Minister Netanyahu later this year.
