'Truly crazy': Netanyahu says India 'absolutely' loves Israel more than anywhere else

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted India as one of Israel’s strongest global allies during a conference in the West Bank on May 29, 2026. He described Indian public sentiment toward Israel as 'absolutely crazy,' claiming his Indian followers outnumber those from any other country. Netanyahu’s comments came amid growing international criticism of Israel, positioning India as a rare exception in its diplomatic support. The remarks follow Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jerusalem in February 2026, where both nations upgraded their relationship to a 'Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity.' The designation formalized years of deepening cooperation in defence, technology, and trade, marking a significant milestone in bilateral ties. The February summit produced agreements spanning artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, education, agriculture, fisheries, fintech, and trade. Both leaders emphasized collaboration in semiconductors, biotechnology, water management, defence, and space technology. They also committed to institutionalizing partnerships through government and business channels to ensure long-term stability. A key announcement was a plan to explore linking India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with Israel’s fast payment system, enhancing cross-border digital transactions. This move aligns with India’s broader push to internationalize its financial infrastructure, following similar UPI integrations with other countries. Defence cooperation was further strengthened through a November 2025 Memorandum of Understanding, with both nations agreeing to deepen ties in critical and emerging technologies under their National Security Advisors. The relationship has evolved beyond traditional defence and agriculture, now prioritizing AI, cybersecurity, and other high-tech sectors as central to future competitiveness. The breadth of agreements reflects how India-Israel relations have matured, with both governments prioritizing high-level oversight for sensitive technological partnerships. The focus on long-term collaboration suggests a strategic alignment that extends beyond individual administrations, solidifying mutual interests in innovation and security.