Dr.Thomas (Special Correspondent)
The relationship between India and Israel stands as a testament to mutual trust,historical camaraderie,and strategic partnership.
For decades,the two nations have supported each other through challenges,fostering a bond that transcends diplomacy and resonates on cultural and human levels.
This article explores the deep-rooted connection between India and Israel,from historical Jewish settlements in India to their unwavering support during times of crisis.
Historical Ties:A Safe Haven for Jewish Communities
For many, the India-Israel relationship carries a spiritual significance.
The Holy Bible,revered by millions,contains promises that nations aligning with Israel will receive blessings (Genesis 12:3).
India’s consistent support for Israel, coupled with its historical hospitality toward Jewish communities, is seen by some as a fulfilment of this promise.
India has long been a welcoming land for Jewish communities, offering refuge when many parts of the world were hostile.
Centuries ago,Jewish settlers,including the Bene Israel, Cochin Jews,and Baghdadi Jews,arrived in India and were embraced by local communities.
Unlike in many other countries where Jewish populations faced persecution or expulsion,India provided a safe haven.
Indian society’s inclusive ethos allowed Jewish communities to thrive, preserving their cultural and religious identities while integrating into the local fabric.
Israeli leaders have often acknowledged this unique history.They have publicly expressed gratitude for India’s hospitality,a sentiment passed down through generations in Israel.This historical goodwill laid the foundation for the strong bilateral ties that exist today.
Strategic Partnership:Support in Times of Crisis:
The India-Israel relationship has been marked by mutual support during critical moments.One of the most significant examples is Israel’s assistance during the 1999 Kargil War.
When India faced aggression from Pakistan-backed militants infiltrating Jammu and Kashmir,Israel stepped in as a reliable ally.
Israel provided strategic support, including precision-guided munitions, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs),and critical intelligence-sharing.
This assistance was instrumental in India’s victory, helping to clear terrorist strongholds and secure the region.
In return,India has stood by Israel during its times of need. When Hamas launched brutal attacks on Israeli civilians,including the horrific October 2023 assault, India expressed unequivocal support.
Indian leaders condemned the terrorism and reaffirmed solidarity with Israel.On social media platforms like X, Indian citizens voiced their support,with many praying for Israel’s strength and victory.This digital solidarity underscored the deep emotional connection between the people of both nations.
Personal Gestures and Diplomatic Warmth:
The warmth of India-Israel relations is also evident in personal gestures between their leaders. In 2017,when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Israel—the first-ever visit by an Indian prime minister—Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally welcomed him at the airport.
This gesture symbolized the deep respect and friendship between the two nations.The visit strengthened bilateral ties, with agreements signed in areas like defence, agriculture,and technology.
Similarly,Netanyahu’s visit to India in 2018 further solidified this bond.The leaders’ camaraderie,reflected the trust and mutual admiration that define India-Israel relations.
Strategic Support:Operation Sindhoor and the Pahalgam Attack:
The strength of the India-Israel partnership is most evident in times of crisis. In early 2025,the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir,orchestrated by Pakistan-backed militants,claimed numerous civilian lives.
The attack bore similarities to tactics used by Hamas, highlighting the shared threat of terrorism faced by both nations. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor,a counterterrorism operation aimed at neutralizing militant strongholds and securing the region.
Israel played a pivotal role in this operation,supplying advanced weaponry, including highly efficient drones that enhanced India’s precision strikes.
Unlike other global powers, such as the United States, which at times wavered in their stance due to geopolitical considerations, Israel offered unconditional support.
Israeli leaders publicly declared their solidarity,stating, “We stand with India in its fight against terrorism.”This unwavering commitment strengthened India’s resolve and contributed to the success of Operation Sindhoor, which significantly disrupted terrorist networks in the region.
Israel’s defense technology, including drones and surveillance systems,has been a game-changer for India.
The collaboration extends beyond equipment to include intelligence-sharing and joint counterterrorism strategies,reflecting a shared commitment to eradicating extremism.
India’s support for Israel during the Hamas attacks and Israel’s aid during India’s struggles with cross-border terrorism highlight a shared commitment to fighting extremism.
This partnership extends beyond military cooperation to include joint training programs,cybersecurity collaboration,and defense technology exchanges.
A Warning Against Supporting Terrorism:
The consequences of supporting terrorist organizations like Hamas.Some individuals in India have expressed sympathy for Hamas,often influenced by misinformation or ideological narratives.However, this stance overlooks the broader implications of terrorism.
As seen in the Phalgan attack,Pakistan-backed militants targeted innocent civilians, a tactic mirrored by Hamas in Israel.
Reports suggest that Hamas leaders have visited Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), potentially coordinating with local militant groups to escalate violence against India.
Supporting terrorism,whether directly or indirectly, undermines India’s security.When Pakistan or its proxies “pour bombs”on Indian soil,the impact is indiscriminate, affecting all communities,including those who might sympathize with groups like Hamas.
India’s robust defense mechanisms, bolstered by Israel’s support,aim to protect the nation from such threats.This land,as many Indians assert,is not a haven for terrorism or its supporters but a bastion of resilience and unity.
Human Connections:Indian Nurses in Israel:
The India-Israel bond is not limited to strategic or diplomatic ties; it is deeply human.Thousands of Indian nurses work in Israel,particularly in healthcare facilities, where they are valued for their professionalism and compassion.
These nurses have shared heartfelt experiences about the warmth and support of the Jewish community.They describe a welcoming environment where cultural differences are respected, and mutual appreciation flourishes.
For instance,Indian nurses have noted how Jewish families often invite them to share meals or celebrate festivals, fostering a sense of belonging.
These personal stories underscore the cultural affinity between the two nations.Indian nurses,serving as ambassadors of goodwill,strengthen the people-to-people ties that complement the official partnership.
Cultural and Public Support:
The Indian public’s support for Israel is evident in both physical and digital realms.During Israel’s conflicts, Indian citizens have used platforms like X to express solidarity, sharing messages of support and prayers for peace.
This grassroots backing complements the official stance of the Indian government, which has consistently condemned terrorism and supported Israel’s right to self-defense.
In India,Israel is often seen as a reliable friend, admired for its resilience and innovation.Conversely,Israelis appreciate India’s pluralistic ethos and its unwavering support during challenging times.
This mutual admiration fosters a unique bond that continues to grow.
The India-Israel relationship is a remarkable example of friendship built on trust, mutual respect, and shared values.
From providing refuge to Jewish communities centuries ago to standing shoulder-to-shoulder against terrorism, India and Israel have forged a partnership that is both strategic and emotional.
As both nations navigate a complex global landscape, their bond remains a beacon of hope and cooperation. Whether through diplomatic gestures,military support, or public solidarity,India and Israel continue to demonstrate that true friendship endures through time and adversity.
