Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent remarks highlighting India as an important strategic partner reflect a broader shift in Israel’s foreign policy and underline the growing significance of India-Israel defence cooperation, according to a report published in the Jerusalem Times.

During a recent interview, Netanyahu said, “You have to build new alliances and develop new relationships. That’s what I’m doing right now with India,” comments that came amid reports of tensions in U.S.-Israel relations.

According to the report, Netanyahu’s statement was more than a diplomatic gesture. It argued that his reference to India served as a response to suggestions that Israel remains overly dependent on U.S. support. The publication said the remarks projected India as evidence that Israel is strengthening partnerships beyond its traditional allies.

The report noted that citing India in such a context reflects a broader strategic shift rather than symbolic diplomacy. It suggested that Israel increasingly views India as an important long-term partner capable of contributing to its security and defence needs.

One area highlighted is defence manufacturing. The report said Israeli defence company Rafael Advanced Defence Systems is in discussions with Indian private-sector manufacturers to establish production of Tamir interceptor missiles, used in Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system. While no official agreement has been announced, the proposal reflects expanding defence cooperation between the two countries.

According to the report, India offers several strategic advantages, including a large manufacturing base, skilled workforce and growing defence production capabilities. It also noted that India’s independent foreign policy allows it to maintain relations with multiple global powers, making it an attractive defence partner without imposing geopolitical conditions.

India and Israel have steadily strengthened their strategic partnership over the past decade, expanding cooperation in defence, technology, agriculture, cybersecurity, innovation and intelligence sharing. Defence remains one of the most significant pillars of the bilateral relationship.

The report concluded that Netanyahu’s remarks signal a changing geopolitical landscape in which India is emerging as an increasingly important strategic partner for Israel while both countries continue to deepen collaboration across multiple sectors.