PM Modi's Knesset Address: India's Pivotal West Asia Statement

• PM Modi's address to the Knesset marks a significant shift in India-Israel relations, moving from covert cooperation to open public partnership.
• Historically, India balanced support for Palestine publicly with private cooperation and arms procurement from Israel, a policy that has now evolved.
• The relationship has deepened structurally, with India becoming Israel's largest weapons buyer and bilateral trade exceeding $6.5 billion by 2024.
• India's 'de-hyphenated' West Asia approach allows independent bilateral ties, but the Knesset visit highlights a clear directional choice towards Israel.
• The visit carries reputational costs, with critics questioning India's global standing and its role as a 'transactional' partner rather than an 'honest broker' in conflict resolution.