Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed profound gratitude to his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, for India’s unwavering support during a period of intense military escalation in the Middle East.

Speaking to NDTV from the ruins of a synagogue in Beit Shemesh, which was recently devastated by an Iranian missile strike, the Israeli leader described Mr Modi as a "great friend" and praised the "enormous friendship" shown by the Indian people. This public acknowledgment follows a lengthy telephonic conversation between the two leaders, during which they discussed the rapidly evolving security situation.

The backdrop to this exchange is a significant intensification of hostilities, following a joint US-Israeli military campaign initiated on 28 February 2026. This operation, which reportedly resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials, has triggered a wave of retaliatory strikes.

The attack on Beit Shemesh, which claimed nine lives, stands as a stark reminder of the human cost of this regional conflict. Netanyahu’s visit to the site was intended to project resilience while highlighting the gravity of the threats facing the Israeli state.

India’s position has been one of careful diplomatic balance, though Netanyahu’s comments suggest a clear appreciation for New Delhi’s perceived moral support. During their call, Prime Minister Modi reportedly voiced India’s deep concern over the escalating violence and the urgent need for the protection of civilian lives.

However, Netanyahu’s public framing of the conversation suggests that Israel views India as a key ally that "stands for the truth" in an increasingly polarised international arena. The personal rapport between the two leaders, often described as a "Special Strategic Partnership," has become a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship.

Beyond the immediate crisis, Netanyahu used the interview to signal a broader strategic objective: the eventual transition of power in Tehran. He claimed that the joint military efforts are partially aimed at creating the conditions for the Iranian people to reclaim their country from the current leadership.

This sentiment has been echoed by US President Donald Trump, who has similarly called for a change in the Iranian regime. Netanyahu asserted that the "time is drawing near" for such a transformation, promising that Israel and the United States would stand in solidarity with the Iranian populace when the moment arrives.

As the conflict shows no signs of abating, the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) remains on high alert, recently intercepting several additional missiles launched from Iranian territory. The Israeli government has issued strict protocols for its citizens, mandating the use of protected spaces upon receiving mobile alerts.

For India, the situation presents a dual challenge: maintaining its strategic ties with Israel while managing the domestic and economic repercussions of a protracted war in the Persian Gulf, where millions of Indian expatriates reside and work.

This video provides the direct footage and audio of Prime Minister Netanyahu's interview with NDTV where he explicitly mentions his gratitude toward Prime Minister Modi.


Video Courtesy NDTV