Global interest has focused on the recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel, not only for its symbolism but also for a bold new geopolitical vision unveiled by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: the creation of a “hexagon of alliances.” This proposal, still loosely defined, points to possibilities of future restructuring of strategic, economic and security partnerships spanning West Asia and beyond and would have India as the focal point.
What is Netanyahu’s hexagon alliance?
India, Israel, Arab states, Africa and Mediterranean partners
Currently defined through three key components:
- Economic Connectedness
- Strategic Coordination
- Technology & defense cooperation
The hexagon concept closely aligns with the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), the major infrastructure plan to connect India to Europe through the Middle East via ports, rail, and logistics hubs.
In discussing the alliance, Netanyahu explained that he hopes to build stronger ties between like-minded countries facing similar Geopolitical and security challenges.
Why India is critical to the hexagon framework
Israel’s choice to showcase India is indicative of New Delhi’s increased global standing.
India can offer key benefits to this new alliance.
- Some of the fastest-growing economies in the world (major)
- Strong defense, technology ties to Israel
- Deep ties to Gulf countries
- Strategic autonomy, diplomatic credibility
Netanyahu referred to India as a “global power,” suggesting that Israel intends to view New Delhi as an architect, a participant.
For India, the framework may enhance its access to advanced technology, improve its trade routes, and increase its influence in the entire Middle East and Mediterranean basin.
Strategic opportunities for India
India cooperates with Israel already on multiple fronts, including:
- Missile defense systems
- Artificial Intelligence
- Agriculture and water technologies
A larger partnership may also enhance projects related to food security, clean energy, and infrastructure.
The IMEC or IMEC-like connectivity corridors would provide India with greater access and connectivity while reducing the need for reliance on traditional trading partners. An IMEC-like corridor would serve as a central connection point linking Asia to Europe.
Potential risk and diplomatic balancing
Despite these opportunities, accepting such a structure comes with risks.
India has long maintained balanced relations between all of these nations with regard to their respective geopolitical interests (Iran and Gulf states, US, and Russia).
India would not gain anything by having an anti-Iran alliance because it would damage its political relationships in the region, as well as impact India’s energy and strategic interests in that region.
According to specialist interpretations, it is likely that India will engage with the hexagon cautiously, having limited participation while still continuing to follow its independent foreign policy.
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What Modi’s Israel visit signals for the future
Modi’s trip is an example of the developed partnership between India and Israel that has been formed around security, innovation, and trade. Modi’s address to the Knesset and receiving Israeli political leaders illustrate how important the relationship has become.
Nevertheless, a “hexagon” alliance of this type is more of an idea than an existing formal alliance.
The future of the hexagon will be determined by how India and other member countries can find the proper balance between taking advantage of strategic opportunities and acting with geopolitical caution.
Overall, this proposal highlights a significant fact: India is not at the periphery of global political power; it is now increasingly becoming a central player in the development of new types of geopolitical systems that will define the coming century.
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