Since the early 1990s, India and Israel have cultivated a robust economic, military, and political relationship that stands as a testament to their enduring partnership. While the formalisation of diplomatic ties only occurred in 1992, the foundation of this relationship was laid decades earlier, marked by mutual support and shared strategic interests.
India’s interaction with Israel began on a cautious note. In 1947, India voted against the United Nations Partition Plan for Palestine, reflecting its sensitivity to the sentiments of its Arab allies. However, by September 17, 1950, India officially recognised the State of Israel. This significant step was explained by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who stated that while India acknowledged Israel as a fact, it delayed recognition to avoid offending Arab nations. Despite this hesitation, Israel was permitted to establish a consulate in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1953, marking the beginning of a gradual relationship.
The informal ties between India and Israel solidified through critical support during times of conflict. During the Indo-China War of 1962, Prime Minister Nehru reached out to various countries for assistance, and Israel responded by sending arms and ammunition. This support was further evident during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. Despite facing its own arms shortage, Israel rerouted a shipment intended for Iran to aid India, showcasing its commitment to India’s defence needs.
The Kargil War of 1999 was another pivotal moment in the India-Israel relationship. Facing difficulties in locating Pakistani soldiers with outdated technology and under sanctions from the USA due to its nuclear tests, India found itself in dire need of advanced military support. Israel stepped in, supplying laser-guided missiles and crucial military technology, even at the risk of straining its relations with the USA. This decisive support during critical times highlighted Israel’s steadfast alliance with India.
Formal diplomatic relations in 1992 marked a significant milestone in the India-Israel relationship. India opened an embassy in Tel Aviv, and Israel reciprocated by opening an embassy in New Delhi. This move ushered in a new era of cooperation, expanding into various sectors, including the military, technology, and agriculture.
As of 2022, India has become Israel’s largest client for military equipment, with Israel being India’s second-largest supplier after Russia. Approximately 42.1 per cent of all Israeli arms exports are received by India. From 1999 to 2009, military business between the two countries amounted to around $9 billion. Their strategic ties extend to joint military training and intelligence-sharing on the activities of various terrorist groups, further strengthening their defence collaboration.
Economically, India and Israel share a dynamic trade relationship. As of 2019, India is Israel’s third-largest Asian trade partner and tenth-largest overall trade partner, with bilateral trade excluding military sales at around $6.3 billion. This economic relationship has been further bolstered under Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with India abstaining from voting against Israel in several United Nations resolutions. Both countries negotiate an extensive bilateral free-trade agreement focusing on information technology, biotechnology, and agriculture.
Israel’s contribution to India’s technological advancement is noteworthy. The collaboration between the two nations encompasses various fields, including agriculture, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence. Israel provides India with cutting-edge technologies crucial for addressing common challenges such as security threats and the need for technological innovation.
Politically and culturally, the relationship between India and Israel is marked by mutual respect and solidarity. An international study on the Arab-Israeli conflict in 2009 revealed that around 58 per cent of Indian respondents sympathised with Israel, reflecting the most positive opinion of any country surveyed.
In 2019, when India revoked Article 370, which granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir, Israel was among the first countries to support India. This political solidarity underscores the deep-rooted trust and cooperation between the two nations.
Both nations face similar security threats and have thus found common ground in their defence and strategic interests. India fully supports Israel’s right to self-defence, facing threats similar to those of India. This shared understanding of security challenges has further strengthened their bond.
Today, Israel is the second-biggest arms supplier to India, playing a significant role in enhancing India’s defence capabilities. The strategic partnership extends to joint military exercises, intelligence-sharing, and collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts.
The India-Israel relationship continues to grow, and it is marked by ongoing cooperation in various fields. The shared technological advancements, particularly in agriculture and biotechnology, have the potential to address critical challenges faced by both nations. The negotiations for a bilateral free-trade agreement also signify a commitment to further strengthening economic ties.
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