External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to Israel. The meeting took place in Jerusalem, where both leaders discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
Their talks covered several areas, including technology, the economy, skills and talent development, connectivity, and security cooperation. The discussions reflected the growing depth of ties between India and Israel.
Jaishankar Shares Message on Strategic Partnership
After the meeting, Jaishankar shared details in a post on X. He said, “Deeply appreciate the call on Prime Minister Israel @netanyahu in Jerusalem this evening. Extended warm wishes of PM @narendramodi. Confident that our Strategic Partnership will grow from strength to strength."
The message highlighted India’s confidence in the future of its relationship with Israel.
Deeply appreciate the call on Prime Minister Israel @netanyahu in Jerusalem this evening. Extended warm wishes of PM @narendramodi.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 16, 2025
Discussed deepening cooperation in technology, economy, skills and talent, connectivity and security.
Valued his perspectives on regional and… pic.twitter.com/pjIqujXIrA
Meetings With President and Key Ministers
Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar met Israeli President Isaac Herzog. He also held separate discussions with Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat.
These meetings focused on strengthening diplomatic, economic, and industrial ties, while also addressing regional and global issues of shared concern.
Condemnation of Bondi Beach Attack
During his visit, Jaishankar strongly condemned the attack on the Jewish community in Australia during Hanukkah celebrations at Bondi Beach.
Addressing the media alongside Gideon Sa’ar, he said, “Let me first of all convey our very, very sincere, deep condolences at the loss of life due to the terror attack at Hanukkah celebrations in Bondi Beach. I want to say that we condemn it in the strongest possible terms.”
He stressed that such acts of violence are unacceptable and must be firmly opposed.
Zero Tolerance Towards Terrorism
Jaishankar underlined that both India and Israel share a firm stance against terrorism. He thanked Israel for standing with India in its fight against terror.
“Where India and Israel are concerned, we are both countries that have a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We appreciate your consistent support in our fight against terrorism and all its forms and manifestations,” Jaishankar said.
Strategic Partnership Has Grown Rapidly
Jaishankar said the strategic partnership between India and Israel has expanded significantly over the past decade. He explained that cooperation now exists at multiple levels.
“It has a G2G dimension, a B2B dimension, and one P2P between people as well. And I would say there really are a very large number of domains today that our relationship touches in one form or the other,” he said.
He noted that this wide-ranging engagement reflects the maturity of the relationship.
Complementary Partners, Shared Goals
Jaishankar described India and Israel as natural partners with strengths that complement each other. He said both countries should fully utilise this potential to achieve mutual benefits.
“Very complementary partners, and we must make the most of that,” he said.
Support for Gaza Peace Plan
Jaishankar also reiterated India’s support for the Gaza peace plan. He expressed hope that ongoing efforts will result in a lasting and durable solution that brings stability to the region.
He said India remains committed to peace and dialogue as the best path forward.