India-Israel Partnership: From Covert Ties to Strategic Embrace
India-Israel Strategic Ties: From Secret Support to Global Security Partnership
India-Israel Strategic Partnership: From Covert Ties to Global Embrace
As Israel celebrates its 77th Independence Day, its partnership with India stands as a beacon of democratic resilience and strategic synergy. What began as covert cooperation has evolved into a comprehensive alliance spanning defense, technology, trade, and diplomacy.
From Shadows to Spotlight
India and Israel’s relationship began in secrecy. During the 1962 Sino-Indian War and the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict, Israel covertly supplied arms to India—years before formal diplomatic ties were established in 1992. These early gestures laid the groundwork for a deeper strategic alignment.
Defense and Counterterrorism: A Shared Priority
Both nations have faced relentless terrorism—India from Pakistan-based groups and Israel from regional extremists. This shared threat has driven robust cooperation in:
- Counterterrorism
- Intelligence sharing
- Joint military exercises
- Cybersecurity and AI surveillance
Israel’s support during the 1999 Kargil War, including precision-guided munitions and drones, marked a turning point. Today, India is one of Israel’s top defense partners, with joint ventures like the Elbit-Adani drone facility in Hyderabad.
Economic Growth and Innovation
Bilateral trade has surged from $200 million in 1992 to $10.7 billion in 2022–23, excluding defense. Key sectors include:
- Diamonds and chemicals
- Agriculture and water tech
- Pharmaceuticals and high-tech equipment
Israeli FDI in India has reached nearly $285 million, while Indian firms are investing in Israel’s renewable energy and water sectors.
Cultural and Civilizational Bonds
India’s Jewish communities—Bene Israelis, Cochin Jews, and Baghdadi Jews—have lived peacefully for centuries. Today, over 85,000 Indian-origin Jews live in Israel, many serving in the IDF and contributing to science, arts, and diplomacy.
Diplomatic Alignment on the Global Stage
India has increasingly supported Israel in international forums, especially during the 2021 Gaza conflict and the 2023 Hamas attacks. In return, Israel has backed India on issues like Kashmir and cross-border terrorism.
Conclusion: A Democratic Axis for Stability
The India-Israel partnership is no longer transactional—it’s a convergence of values, resilience, and strategic trust. From defense to diplomacy, agriculture to AI, this alliance is shaping a new axis of stability in Asia and beyond.