FO Says Pakistan Vigilant Over Expanding India-Israel Ties

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan on Thursday said Pakistan remained closely seized of the expanding defence cooperation between India and Israel, including systems and platforms that could impact regional security.

Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi made the remarks during his weekly press briefing while responding to questions regarding agreements announced during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Israel.

“We are fully cognisant of the threats such cooperation may pose to our security, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as to regional peace and stability,” the spokesperson said, adding that Pakistan remained vigilant regarding emerging strategic developments.

He reiterated that Pakistan maintained robust military preparedness to defend against and deter any aggression.

India-Israel Defence Cooperation

Pakistan’s response followed statements by Prime Minister Modi indicating that New Delhi and Tel Aviv would pursue joint development, production and transfer of defence technology, alongside efforts to advance a potential free trade agreement.

According to Indian officials, the two sides agreed to cooperate in “horizon scanning” aimed at strengthening strategic foresight, risk assessment and technology planning through joint research, capacity building and AI-driven tools.

Israel also agreed to allow 50,000 additional Indian workers over the next five years, particularly in the manufacturing sector.

During a joint press interaction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Modi said India would continue to consult and cooperate with partners on efforts to establish peace in West Asia.

“The Gaza peace plan has opened a pathway to peace, and India has extended full support to these efforts,” he said.

Modi’s two-day visit — his second to Israel since taking office in 2014 — focused on expanding strategic, technological and economic ties. He also addressed Israel’s parliament and underscored cooperation in areas including civil nuclear energy and space.

Israeli officials described the visit as a reflection of a deepening partnership, with Netanyahu terming Modi “more than a friend.”

The visit, however, drew criticism from some opposition figures in India, including senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, who urged the prime minister to raise humanitarian concerns regarding Gaza during his engagements.

In his address, Modi expressed support for durable peace and regional stability but did not explicitly reference civilian casualties.

Observers note that the evolving India-Israel defence relationship continues to draw attention in the region, particularly amid broader geopolitical tensions.