Timeline
February 22, 2026 — February 27, 2026
World
Timeline: How Modi's Historic Israel Visit Unfolded Over 5 Days
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Israel in February 2026 became a significant diplomatic event that strengthened bilateral ties despite domestic political controversies. The visit saw India and Israel elevate their relationship to a 'special strategic partnership' and sign 17 cooperation agreements, while Modi navigated both Israeli internal politics and regional tensions over Gaza.
10 events · 5 days · 23 source articles
Sun, Feb 22, 2026
Moderate
Israeli Opposition threatens boycott over Supreme Court chief exclusion
Opposition leader Yair Lapid announced he would boycott PM Modi's parliamentary address unless Supreme Court President Yitzhak Amit was invited, as per Israeli convention. The controversy entangled Modi's expected visit in Israel's domestic politics before his arrival. Sources indicated the government was 'intentionally trying to force' the opposition into a difficult situation.
Mon, Feb 23, 2026
Minor
Modi's visit sparks political firestorm in Israel
The controversy over the Supreme Court chief's exclusion from Modi's parliamentary address escalated into a broader political firestorm in Israel. The dispute highlighted ongoing tensions between Netanyahu's government and the Israeli judiciary.
Wed, Feb 25, 2026
Major
Modi addresses Knesset, declares India stands with Israel 'with full conviction'
Prime Minister Modi delivered a historic speech to the Israeli parliament, stating India stands with Israel 'firmly with full conviction.' He expressed condolences for victims of the October 7 Hamas attacks and was greeted with a standing ovation and chants of his name. Modi made no mention of Palestinian concerns in his address.
Wed, Feb 25, 2026
Moderate
Opposition stages partial boycott during Netanyahu's speech but attends Modi's address
Israeli opposition lawmakers carried out a partial boycott, walking out during PM Netanyahu's introduction but returning to hear Modi's speech. Opposition leader Lapid assured Modi the walkout had 'nothing to do with you,' maintaining the protest was against the government's exclusion of the High Court chief.
Wed, Feb 25, 2026
Moderate
Modi's visit underscores deepening India-Israel strategic ties
Foreign policy analysts noted that Modi's visit represented a strategic bet on the bilateral relationship between India and Israel. The two-day trip included discussions on multiple fronts including defense, technology, and regional cooperation projects like IMEC and I2U2.
Thu, Feb 26, 2026
Moderate
India and Israel discuss strategic infrastructure projects including Haifa port
Modi and Netanyahu discussed strategic infrastructure projects, including the Adani Group's management of Haifa port, which handles over 30% of Israel's imports. The port partnership represents India's growing economic influence in the Mediterranean region and fits into the broader India-Middle East-Europe corridor strategy.
Thu, Feb 26, 2026
Major
India and Israel elevate ties to 'special strategic partnership' and sign 17 agreements
In a major diplomatic breakthrough, India and Israel upgraded their relationship to a 'special strategic partnership' and signed 17 cooperation agreements covering AI, trade, investment, education, defense, and cybersecurity. Both nations agreed to fast-track a long-awaited free trade agreement. Modi also backed the Gaza peace initiative, stating that 'humanity must never become a victim of conflict.'
Thu, Feb 26, 2026
Major
Modi receives Knesset Medal as personal ties with Netanyahu deepen
Modi became the first foreign leader to receive the Knesset Medal, described as the highest parliamentary honor. The award ceremony highlighted the close personal relationship between Modi and Netanyahu, with frequent embraces and Netanyahu wearing traditional Indian attire at a private dinner. Observers noted Modi's decisive tilt toward Israel represented a departure from India's historically nonaligned position.
Thu, Feb 26, 2026
Moderate
Modi supports Gaza Peace Plan and addresses US-Iran tensions
In a joint statement with Netanyahu, Modi expressed support for President Trump's 'Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict' and emphasized that India's security interests are directly linked to peace and stability in the Middle East. The leaders discussed regional developments including US-Iran tensions and underlined the need for just and durable peace through dialogue.
Fri, Feb 27, 2026
Moderate
Critics decry 'sinister nexus' between India and Israel
Following the visit's conclusion, critics condemned Modi's unwavering support for Netanyahu amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. Pakistani media described the relationship as a 'sinister nexus' and noted that Modi's public allegiance to Netanyahu contradicted widespread global condemnation of the war in Gaza, with UN experts having documented the scale of violence.
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