Israel elections 2026: What happens to India's defence, trade ties if Netanyahu fails to retain power? Expert weighs in
Mint · Swati Gandhi ·
Could Benjamin Netanyahu’s political future affect India-Israel ties? Here's what a former diplomat says a change in Israel’s leadership could mean for defence, technology, trade, agriculture and the proposed free trade agreement between the two countries.
The war in Gaza, Israel’s strikes on Iran in June 2025, a joint military operation with the United States targeting Iran in February 2026, and subsequent action in Lebanon were among the key developments that influenced voter sentiment ahead of Israel’s election on 27 October.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pulled ahead of his rival as votes were counted on Wednesday. However, his prospects of securing another term remain uncertain, with his right-wing and ultra-Orthodox bloc projected to fall short of the 61 seats needed to form a majority government in the 120-member Knesset, Reuters reported.
That leaves Netanyahu dependent on attracting rival parties to form a coalition. With the full vote count expected by Friday, local time, and official results due on 4 November, attention is turning to what a potential change in Israel's leadership could mean for India-Israel ties.