New Delhi, India — February 25, 2026
A political debate has emerged ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Israel, with senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticizing the trip and urging the government to address the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Modi is set to travel to Israel on February 25–26 at the invitation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where bilateral cooperation and regional issues are expected to be discussed.
🗣️ Jairam Ramesh Calls Visit “Moral Cowardice”
In a post on the social media platform X, Ramesh alleged that the Prime Minister was showing “moral cowardice” at a time when, according to him, several global voices have criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Referring to India’s past positions on Palestine, Ramesh recalled historical milestones, including:
Former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s visit to Gaza in May 1960.
India issuing a commemorative postage stamp in 1981 in solidarity with Palestine.
India formally recognizing Palestine as a state in November 1988.
Ramesh contrasted those decisions with the current government’s engagement with Israel, arguing that the geopolitical context has shifted.
📢 Priyanka Gandhi Urges PM to Raise Gaza Issue
Earlier, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also appealed to the Prime Minister to address the Gaza conflict during his speech at Israel’s parliament, the Knesset.
In her remarks, she expressed hope that Modi would acknowledge civilian casualties in Gaza and call for justice and peace, emphasizing India’s long-standing position of supporting truth and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
🇮🇳🇮🇱 Official Visit Scheduled for February 25–26
The Prime Minister’s visit marks his second official trip to Israel. In 2017, Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country.
During the upcoming visit, Modi and Netanyahu are expected to review and expand cooperation in areas including:
Science and technology
Defense and security
Agriculture
Water management
Trade and economic collaboration
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the leaders will also discuss regional and global developments. Modi is also scheduled to meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
Netanyahu described the visit as historic and said the partnership between India and Israel continues to reach new heights.
📌 Broader Context
India and Israel have developed a multi-dimensional strategic partnership over the past decade, particularly in defense, innovation, and agriculture. At the same time, India has historically supported Palestinian statehood, maintaining diplomatic ties with both sides.
The political debate ahead of the visit reflects differing perspectives within India’s domestic political landscape regarding foreign policy priorities.
