Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Israel for a two-day official visit. Various online sources claim that New Delhi has finalized defense deals worth around $8.6 billion with Israel. Some analysts further suggest that Modi is trying to convince Israeli leaders to establish a state-of-the-art drone manufacturing plant in India.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Senate unanimously passed a resolution condemning what it called provocative remarks by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to international media reports, the Israeli Prime Minister has proposed the formation of a new “hexagon of alliances” or a “six-party” regional security architecture, involving India.
Speaking in occupied Jerusalem, former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett also warned that a new “hostile Sunni axis” including Turkey, Qatar, the Muslim Brotherhood and Pakistan was emerging, which he called a significant strategic threat to Israel. Although such remarks were made in a broader geopolitical context in the Middle East, Pakistan’s inclusion attracted critical attention in light of India’s cordial ties with Israel.
In another development, Pakistan and 13 other Muslim-majority countries jointly condemned controversial remarks by US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, who said Israel had the right to control territories stretching from the Nile to the Euphrates.
Speculation on social media suggests that Israel, being one of the most prominent founding members, could be given a prominent leadership role in the “Peace Council.” Although no verified evidence supports these claims, the online discourse has fueled concerns about how countries, such as Pakistan, that do not recognize Israel, could find themselves in such a diplomatic arrangement if it comes to fruition.
Historically, India has maintained close ties with Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. However, over the past decade, the Modi government has visibly deepened its defense cooperation with Israel, often framing the partnership in pragmatic security terms.
The deepening defense partnership between India and Israel, Pakistan’s principled pro-Palestinian stance and the rapid spread of conspiracy theories on social media have created an atmosphere in which it is increasingly difficult to separate facts from speculation.
From Pakistan’s perspective, any substantial improvement in India’s offensive capabilities could potentially shift the balance of regional deterrence. Such critical developments could force Islamabad to review aspects of its own defense preparedness. Nonetheless, Pakistan has consistently proven itself to be a responsible nuclear state, operating under a strong and internationally recognized command and control structure.
In the digital age, we must understand that information spreads instantly, as do exaggerations and conspiracy theories. Online platforms can amplify unverified claims, shape public opinion, and influence political narratives. This is why it is very important to distinguish between documented political statements and speculative personal accounts.
In the context of Modi’s ongoing visit to Israel, we must remain strong, composed and vigilant. Our principled support for the Palestinian cause must continue, alongside a firm commitment to maintaining regional stability. In my view, Pakistan must adopt a measured approach, guided by thoughtful analysis and considered decisions, to effectively address emerging challenges on the defense and diplomatic fronts.
The writer is a member of the National Assembly and patron-in-chief of the Hindu Council of Pakistan. He tweets/posts @RVankwani
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policies of PK Press Club.tv.
Originally published in The News
