Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a two-day state visit to Israel on February 25–26, 2026, at the invitation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The bilateral relationship was elevated from a 'Strategic Partnership' (established in 2017) to a 'Special Strategic Partnership,' reflecting deepened engagement across multiple domains.

The two sides signed 16 agreements spanning defence, artificial intelligence, mineral exploration, mobility, and fintech. Key outcomes include: (i) launch of a new Critical and Emerging Technologies (CET) Partnership led by the National Security Advisors of both countries, covering AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, biotechnology, and cybersecurity; (ii) signing of an MoU on AI Cooperation; (iii) a Letter of Intent to establish an Indo-Israel Cyber Centre of Excellence in India; and (iv) commitments on defence co-production including discussions on Iron Dome technology transfer.

India and Israel also agreed to boost bilateral trade, with specific agreements on critical mineral exploration and a fintech cooperation framework. The elevated partnership is strategically significant for India as it consolidates ties with a key defence supplier and advanced technology partner while navigating the complex West Asia geopolitical landscape. The Cyber Centre of Excellence is expected to strengthen India's cyber resilience and align with the Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat visions.