Jaishankar Meets Netanyahu In Israel, Discusses Deepening Bilateral Strategic Partnership

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who arrived in Israel for a two-day visit, met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, during which they discussed the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries.

Jaishankar’s visit came as preparations were underway for Netanyahu’s proposed trip to India. Netanyahu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke recently over the phone, after which the Israeli leader said the two would be “meeting very soon”.

“Deeply appreciate the call on Prime Minister Israel @netanyahu in Jerusalem this evening. Extended warm wishes of PM @narendramodi. Discussed deepening cooperation in technology, economy, skills and talent, connectivity and security,” Jaishankar wrote on X.

“Valued his perspectives

on regional and global developments. Confident that our Strategic Partnership will grow from strength to strength,” he added.

Deeply appreciate the call on Prime Minister Israel @netanyahu in Jerusalem this evening. Extended warm wishes of PM @narendramodi.

Discussed deepening cooperation in technology, economy, skills and talent, connectivity and security.

Valued his perspectives on regional and… pic.twitter.com/pjIqujXIrA

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 16, 2025

Prior to this, Jaishankar met Israel’s Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat and expressed confidence in the early conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement between the two countries to further boost economic partnership.

India, Israel Share ‘Zero-Tolerance’ Policy Against Terrorism

Jaishankar arrived in Tel Aviv from Abu Dhabi, where he participated in the high-profile Sir Bani Yas Forum. He also attended the 16th India–UAE Joint Commission Meeting and the 5th round of the India–UAE Strategic Dialogue held on December 15.

While addressing the press alongside his Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa’ar, Jaishankar condemned the terror attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, saying that India and Israel both have a policy of “zero tolerance” against terrorism.

“Let me first of all convey our very, very sincere, deep condolences at the loss of life due to the terror attack at Hanukkah celebrations in Bondi beach. I want to say that we condemn it in the strongest possible terms,” Jaishankar said. He also thanked Israel for its support of India in its fight against terrorism.

“Where India and Israel are concerned, we are both countries who have a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We appreciate your consistent support to our fight against terrorism and all its forms and manifestations,” Jaishankar said.

Israeli Minister of Tourism Haim Katz, Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Avi Dichter and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich visited India earlier this year as the two countries build momentum towards a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

(with inputs from agencies)