Netanyahu Calls for New Strategic Alliances With India and Latin America
Israeli prime minister says the country must reduce its reliance on US support amid concerns over possible future changes in Washington’s leadership.
Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for stronger strategic partnerships with India and Latin American countries, saying Israel must prepare for possible changes in US policy and reduce its dependence on traditional American support.
Presenting his new security vision ahead of Israel’s October 27 parliamentary elections, Netanyahu reportedly warned that a future US president could take a position opposed to Israel’s current policies. He said the country should make the most of President Donald Trump’s remaining time in office while preparing for uncertainty in American politics.
Netanyahu highlighted India’s growing importance, describing it as a major power with which Israel maintains close relations. He has frequently referred to his personal ties with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as evidence of Israel’s international partnerships despite mounting criticism over its military actions and policies.
He also pointed to Brazil and other Latin American countries as potential partners, suggesting that broader international cooperation could strengthen Israel’s diplomatic and security position.
The proposed strategy comes amid criticism of Netanyahu’s policies among sections of the US Democratic Party and left leaning political groups. Relations between Netanyahu’s government and previous US administrations, including those of Barack Obama and Joe Biden, were marked by disagreements over several policy issues.
Meanwhile, former Israeli army chief and Netanyahu’s political rival Gadi Eisenkot reportedly criticised the security plan, describing it as a political move rather than a serious national security strategy. He argued that the document diverted attention from the government’s record and ongoing conflicts.
The debate over Israel’s future alliances has added another issue to the country’s election campaign, with questions over relations with Washington and partnerships with countries in Asia and Latin America remaining central to the discussion.