Features|Narendra ModiKashmir, spying, demolitions: How Modi’s India embraced ‘Israel model’As India under Modi openly embraces Israel, New Delhi appears to import more than just weapons.

India-Israel Collaboration: Strategic Developments

In November 2019, Sandeep Chakravorty, India's then Consul General in New York, suggested the adoption of an "Israeli model" in Indian-administered Kashmir. This statement was made amidst significant political changes in the region, which included the revocation of its semi-autonomous status and the enforcement of a military lockdown.

Chakravorty's remarks referred to Israel's settlement policies in the occupied Palestinian territories, drawing parallels with the resettlement of displaced Kashmiri Hindus following the 1989 exodus due to regional conflict. His comments underscored a strategic alignment between India and Israel, further highlighted by Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to Israel on Tue, Feb 25, 2026.

Policy Parallels and Ideological Affiliations

Under Modi's leadership, India has strengthened its ties with Israel, adopting several elements of Israel's security and administrative strategies. This is particularly evident in policies implemented in regions like Kashmir, which critics argue mirror Israel's approach in Palestinian territories. Analysts note that both nations share ideological commonalities, viewing themselves as homelands for their respective majorities.

Examples of policy parallels include the demolition of homes in BJP-ruled states, reminiscent of Israel's practices in the West Bank. These actions have often been criticized for lacking due legal process, similar to the contentious demolitions in Palestinian areas.

India and Israel have developed robust defence ties, with India being a major purchaser of Israeli military equipment. This includes advanced weapons systems and joint training exercises. The collaboration extends to the controversial use of surveillance technology, with allegations of Israeli spyware being used in India for monitoring purposes. These actions reflect a broader strategy of securitization and control, influenced by Israeli practices.

The bilateral relationship is underpinned by a shared security doctrine, focusing on perceived internal and external threats. This has significant implications for India's domestic policies, especially in managing regions with historical conflict, such as Kashmir.

India's approach to Kashmir, post-August 2019, involves stringent security measures and limited political engagement, drawing comparisons to Israel's governance of the West Bank. The militarization and administrative practices in these regions reflect a strategic alignment in addressing internal security challenges.

The geopolitical dynamics between India and Israel continue to evolve, with both countries leveraging their relationship to address national security concerns while fostering economic and military cooperation.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.