Israel Says Strike on Iran Planned After PM Modi’s Visit; Envoy Clarifies Timing

Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has addressed speculation surrounding the timing of the recent US-Israel military strike on Iran, clarifying that the operation was carried out only after Prime Minister Narendra Modi completed his visit to Israel in February 2026.

Speaking to ANI, the envoy said the security situation in the Middle East was already highly volatile before the Indian Prime Minister’s visit. However, Israel waited for an operational window after the diplomatic engagement concluded.

According to Azar, the Israeli leadership approved the operation only after Modi’s departure from Israel.

Timing of the Military Operation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Israel between February 25 and 26, 2026, during a period when tensions in the region were already escalating. Azar explained that the Israeli government chose not to conduct the operation during the visit despite the growing crisis.

He stated that the opportunity to carry out the strike emerged only after the visit ended, and Israel’s cabinet formally approved the operation two days later.

The envoy’s remarks were aimed at countering speculation that the timing of the military action had any connection with India’s diplomatic engagement.

India–Israel Engagement Continues

Azar emphasised that Israel values its relationship with India and intends to maintain close cooperation despite the conflict in the region.

He noted that both countries share several strategic interests and will continue diplomatic engagement, while India pursues policies that align with its national interests.

Iran’s Retaliation Was Expected

The Israeli envoy also commented on Iran’s retaliatory strikes following the military operation, stating that Israel had anticipated such responses.

He said Israel had previously taken steps to weaken Iran’s capabilities, reducing the potential damage from retaliation compared to earlier confrontations.

Azar further accused Iran of escalating tensions by targeting multiple countries across the region, describing the actions as irresponsible.

Addressing Disinformation

Azar also dismissed rumours and misinformation circulating on social media about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, confirming that the Israeli leader is alive and actively leading the country during the ongoing conflict.

He said misleading videos and claims circulating online were part of a broader wave of disinformation surrounding the war.

Israel’s Strategic Objectives

Outlining Israel’s goals in the conflict, the envoy said the country remains focused on three main objectives:

• Eliminating the nuclear threat posed by Iran
• Neutralising Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities
• Weakening forces within Iran that Israel believes suppress the Iranian population

Azar stressed that Israel’s strategy has not changed and that the country aims to ensure Iran cannot rebuild these military capabilities once the conflict ends.

As tensions in the Middle East continue to rise, India has maintained a cautious diplomatic stance, balancing its strategic partnerships while prioritising its national interests and regional stability.