'Israel, its people look forward to welcoming you': President Herzog on PM Modi's state visit

New Delhi: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on two day Israel visit on Wednesday, Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday expressed his eagerness, saying that the country and its people look forward to welcoming him.

In a post on X, Herzog, sharing PM Modi's departure statement ahead of his visit, extended a warm message to the Prime Minister, underlining the close ties between the two nations.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the State of Israel and the people of Israel look forward to welcoming you to Israel," Herzog stated in his post.


Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed from the national capital as he set out to undertake his state visit to Israel from February 25 to February 26 at the invitation of his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu.

Ahead of his departure, PM Modi, in a statement, described the visit as an opportunity to further deepen the two nations' "robust and multifaceted Strategic Partnership."

"At the invitation of my dear friend Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, I will be undertaking a State Visit to Israel from 25-26 February 2026," the statement read.

"India and Israel share a robust and multifaceted Strategic Partnership that has witnessed remarkable growth and dynamism in recent years," the statement read, highlighting the trajectory of bilateral ties between the two nations.

The Prime Minister stated that he is looking forward to discussions with his Israeli counterpart aimed at expanding cooperation across various sectors.

During his visit, the PM is scheduled to meet President Isaac Herzog and would also address the Knesset, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so.

"I will also have the honour of becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, an occasion that would be a tribute to the strong parliamentary and democratic ties that bind our two nations," he said.

The Prime Minister said he also looks forward in engaging with the Indian diaspora there, whom he credited with strengthening bilateral goodwill.

Expressing confidence in the outcomes of the visit, the Prime Minister stated, "I am confident that my State Visit will further consolidate the enduring bonds between the two countries, set new goals for the Strategic Partnership, and advance our shared vision for a resilient, innovative and prosperous future."