New Delhi: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has once again underscored the robust support his country enjoys in India, contrasting it with challenges faced elsewhere in the international arena. Addressing a conference in the West Bank on Thursday, Netanyahu spoke warmly of India’s stance toward Israel, describing it as an important and unique partnership with a major global power.
“We have problems with delegitimisation in much of the world, but not in India,” the Israeli leader stated. He went on to say that India demonstrates “an absolutely crazy support for Israel, truly crazy,” adding that he believes the country has more followers from India than from any other nation.
This latest comment reflects Netanyahu’s repeated emphasis on strong bilateral ties with India. He previously characterized his 2018 visit to New Delhi, accompanied by his wife Sara, as a “love fest.” In an earlier interview with CBS News’ *60 Minutes* programme, he noted the enormous respect Indians hold for Israel and recalled the warm reception given to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his own trip to Israel.
Netanyahu’s remarks come at a time when Israel faces increased scrutiny globally. Recent polling data from the Pew Research Center, released in April, indicated that 60 percent of American adults hold an unfavorable view of Israel, marking a rise from 53 percent the previous year. Similarly, confidence in Netanyahu’s handling of world affairs has declined among US respondents.
The Israeli Prime Minister has attributed part of this shift in American public opinion to coordinated online campaigns. He has accused Pakistan of operating social media bot farms aimed at undermining the US-Israel alliance, citing fabricated posts from supposed American users that originate from overseas.
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Netanyahu’s comments highlight the enduring warmth in India-Israel relations, which have grown significantly in areas such as defence, technology, and trade over the past decade. His statements also serve to project a narrative of international solidarity for Israel despite criticisms related to its policies in the region.
The Israeli leader’s focus on India appears aimed at reinforcing domestic and diaspora support while countering narratives of isolation. With India’s large population and growing global influence, the relationship continues to be portrayed by Netanyahu as a key pillar of Israel’s international standing.