Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed that India effectively deployed Israeli-made weapons, including Barak-8 missiles and HARPY drones, during Operation Sindoor in Pakistan in May 2025.

Netanyahu praised the battlefield performance of these arms, stating, “The things we provided worked very well on the field. We develop our weapons in combat, and they are battle-tested.”

This acknowledgment underscores the deepening defense ties between Israel and India, with India importing nearly $2.9 billion in Israeli military equipment over the past decade, per Reuters.

Netanyahu also addressed Israel’s strategy in Gaza, emphasizing that Israel will not permanently occupy the territory.

He proposed handing over Gaza’s administration to an international body to ensure stability without Hamas influence.

“If Hamas surrenders and lays down its arms, the war ends tomorrow,” he declared, reiterating his goal to eliminate Hamas entirely.

On trade, Netanyahu called the United States and India “strong friends and partners” of Israel, expressing optimism about resolving the U.S.-India tariff dispute sparked by India’s Russian oil purchases.

The U.S. imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods, but Netanyahu believes both nations can negotiate a solution, noting their mutual recognition as key allies.

He also highlighted ongoing talks for direct flights between Israel and India, signaling broader economic cooperation.