Is Afghanistan planning to join security bloc proposed by Israeli PM Netanyahu?
2026-02-26 - 15:03
ISLAMABAD – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India travelled to Israel to deepen defence, trade, and security cooperation. The visit, however, quickly ignited international debate and diplomatic tension, and sparked debate on bloc. For first time in history, Indian Prime Minister addressed Israeli parliament, delivering speech that strongly endorsed Israel’s stance on regional security and condemned the 7 October Hamas attack. His remarks were hailed in Israel as a symbol of strategic partnership but drew sharp criticism from countries that oppose Israeli military and settlement policies. A broad coalition of nations, including Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, joined forces with Arab League and Organization of Islamic Cooperation to condemn statements by the US ambassador suggesting that Israeli control over certain occupied territories might be acceptable. They argued that such views undermine international law and the rights of Palestinians. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu praised Modi’s visit as a milestone in bilateral relations and reiterated cooperation on security and economic projects. Discussions reportedly also touched on the situation in Afghanistan, with both leaders expressing support for stability and reconstruction. Some reports even suggested India might consider developmental assistance for Afghanistan, though no official confirmation followed. Israeli officials shared idea of 6-nation alliance, a so-called “Hexagon of Cooperation”, aimed at strengthening regional security and economic collaboration. While still theoretical and without formal agreements, the concept hints at a potential new geopolitical framework involving India and Israel alongside other regional players. Modi’s visit also reignited debates about India’s foreign policy choices. Critics argue that openly aligning with Israel at a time of widespread global censure could complicate India’s relations with Middle Eastern nations, many of which are key economic and energy partners. Supporters, however, view the move as part of India’s strategic diversification and its commitment to counterterrorism cooperation. The diplomatic ripple effects are already visible. Several Arab states and international organisations issued strong statements against Israeli settlement expansion and the reclassification of Palestinian land as state territory, citing violations of international norms. Israel, on the other hand, insists that its actions are necessary for security and sovereignty. Indian PM Modi arrives in Israel on two-day official visit amid US-Iran tensions