India an Essential Part of Middle East’s Future, Says Israeli President Herzog During PM Modi’s Visit

JERUSALEM, Feb 26, 2026: On the final day of his two-day state visit to Israel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to discuss strengthening ties between the two countries. President Herzog described India as “an essential part of a great future for the Middle East” and added that Israel can be “an essential part of the great future of India.” He also lauded India’s economic growth, noting its global significance.

During the bilateral meeting, both leaders explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in areas such as education, start-ups, innovation, technology, and connectivity. PM Modi thanked President Herzog for his support in enhancing the India-Israel partnership and extended a warm invitation for Herzog to visit India, encouraging him to explore not only Delhi but other regions of the country as well. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the discussions focused on expanding strategic and economic collaboration.

Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Modi also paid his respects at Yad Vashem, Israel’s official Holocaust Memorial, alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The leaders observed a moment of silence in the Hall of Remembrance, paying tribute to the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, while prayers were recited in Kaddish. Yad Vashem, established in 1953, honors the victims of the Holocaust and the “Righteous Among the Nations,” non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jewish people during World War II.

However, the visit has drawn some domestic criticism. Congress leader Anand Sharma expressed concern that India should not be seen as endorsing policies in Israel that have allegedly caused suffering in Gaza, emphasizing India’s historical commitment to humanitarian values and support for a sovereign Palestinian state.