Netanyahu Calls India Cornerstone of Israel Alliances

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has highlighted India as a cornerstone of Israel's expanding international alliances, praising what he described as overwhelming public support for his country. Speaking at a conference in the West Bank on Thursday, Netanyahu contrasted the sentiment in India with what he called a global campaign to delegitimize Israel.

"We face delegitimization in much of the world, but not in India," Netanyahu said. "In India, there is an absolutely crazy love for Israel, truly crazy." He also claimed a significant digital following from the country, stating he believes he has more followers from India than from anywhere else.

The remarks underscore a relationship that has deepened significantly in recent years. Netanyahu described India as a "huge power" and said it occupies a special and unique place in Israel's global outreach strategy. His comments come months after a pivotal state visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Jerusalem in February.

During that visit, the two leaders formally elevated bilateral ties to a "Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation, and Prosperity." A joint statement outlined plans to strengthen...