India and Israel Strengthen Defense Ties, Unite Against Terrorism

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India and Israel are reinforcing their already robust defense cooperation, committing to a long-term strategic framework for future collaboration following high-level discussions in New Delhi. This deepening partnership comes as both nations unequivocally condemned recent terrorist acts, including the April 22nd attack in Pahalgam, India, and the devastating October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel.

During a bilateral meeting, Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Major General Amir Baram, Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Defense, reviewed ongoing defense collaboration activities and agreed to develop an institutional framework for further strengthening their ties. Major General Baram expressed strong condemnation for the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, primarily tourists, and affirmed Israel’s full support for India’s counter-terrorism efforts. In response, Defence Secretary Singh reiterated India’s steadfast “zero tolerance” approach to terrorism and condemned the October 7th attacks in Israel, calling for the immediate release of all hostages.

The discussions underscored a shared commitment to addressing regional and global security challenges, with a particular emphasis on enhancing collaboration in advanced technologies, counter-terrorism strategies, and strategic planning. This strategic alignment is a natural progression for two nations that have increasingly found common ground in their security interests and face similar threats from extremist ideologies.

India has a history of extensively utilizing Israeli-origin weapon systems, a fact highlighted during recent cross-border hostilities. These include advanced assets such as the Harop and Harpy kamikaze drones, effectively deployed to target enemy air defense sites and radars, and the jointly developed Barak-8 medium-range surface-to-air missile systems, crucial components of India’s layered air defense network.

Major General Baram, during his visit, lauded India as a “key strategic ally” and a “stable partner” that has proven resilient through challenging times. He also expressed keen interest in expanding cooperation in research and development, as well as joint manufacturing initiatives.

The agreement to forge a more structured and long-term defense partnership between India and Israel signals a growing convergence of strategic interests. Both nations recognize the imperative of robust defense capabilities and intelligence sharing to combat the evolving nature of global terrorism and maintain regional stability. This strengthened alliance is poised to yield significant benefits for the security and technological advancement of both countries.