Jerusalem streets on Wednesday buzzed with excitement as tricolours adorned shopfronts, community leaders organised welcome events, and Hindi conversations filled neighbourhoods with a strong Indian presence ahead of Narendra Modi’s two-day state visit to Israel. For the Indian diaspora, the visit feels both historic and personal. Many see it as more than a diplomatic trip, reflecting the remarkable growth of India-Israel relations since Narendra Modi first visited in 2017, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so.

Laxmi Narayana, who moved from Hyderabad to Israel for work, said, “We are very happy. A warm welcome to our Narendra Modiji. This being his second visit feels special.” He also highlighted the camaraderie between Narendra Modi and Benjamin Netanyahu, expressing hopes for stronger India-Israel ties.

Thousands of Indian workers across Israel—in construction, agriculture, and hospitality—have benefited from the growing partnership. Banala Gangadhar, President of the Israel Telangana Association, called the visit “long-awaited” and said it will further strengthen the bond between the two nations, creating opportunities for more Indians to work in Israel.

Srinivas, a resident of Israel for five years, described the day as “auspicious,” noting that the promises from Modi’s first visit have been realised with thousands of Indians now employed across various sectors. Prakash and Paska Sudhakar, both from Hyderabad, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the respect and warmth Israeli people show toward Indians and expressing hope that the visit will deepen bilateral relations.

Beyond diplomacy, the visit carries emotional significance for the diaspora, symbolizing recognition, connection, and shared futures. As India and Israel continue to collaborate in defence, technology, agriculture, and innovation, the relationship resonates on both professional and personal levels for expatriates. During the visit from February 25–26, Narendra Modi will meet with Netanyahu","israeli prime minister"], Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and address the Knesset, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so. He will also engage with the Indian community in Israel.