PM Modi emphasises dialogue, diplomacy in call with Netanyahu over West Asia situation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu discussed India-Israel relations and the situation in West Asia over a phone call on Thursday (October 22, 2026).

“The two leaders welcomed the sustained momentum in India-Israel relations and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening the Special Strategic Partnership between the two countries. The leaders also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia and underscored the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region,” Mr. Modi’s office said in a statement.

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During the call, Mr. Modi reiterated India’s call for dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward.

Meanwhile, Mr. Netanyahu, said that he has invited Mr. Modi to light a torch with Indian pilot Smit Machhar, hailed for his bravery during the recent incident involving a flydubai flight.

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“I spoke with my friend, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and invited him to light a torch together with the heroic Indian pilot on the Independence Day of the State of Israel. Modi thanked me for the invitation and said that on the ground and in the air, India and Israel fight terrorism together. He expressed his appreciation for the courageous and long-standing relationship between us,” Mr. Netanyahu said in a post on X.