Modi and Netanyahu reaffirm India-Israel strategic partnership as they discuss the Middle East and stress the urgent need for regional peace

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed bilateral relations and the situation in the Middle East during a phone call on Thursday, according to a statement from Modi’s office. The statement said they welcomed sustained momentum in India-Israel relations and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening the countries’ Special Strategic Partnership.

The leaders also exchanged views on recent developments in the Middle East and underscored the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region. Modi reiterated India’s call for dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward, and the two leaders agreed to remain in touch, the statement said.

The call took place amid escalating regional tensions and ongoing hostilities between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis. The Saudi-led coalition has carried out airstrikes against Houthi positions, while the group has launched missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. The post also cited continued tensions between the United States and Iran following their military confrontation, with diplomatic efforts to reach an agreement deadlocked.