'Tremendous support in India': Netanyahu denies US being Israel's only ally, counters JD Vance

'Tremendous support in India': Netanyahu denies US being Israel's only ally, counters JD Vance

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pushed back against remarks by US Vice President JD Vance that described the United States as Israel's "only powerful ally," insisting that the country enjoys strong support from several partners, including India. The comments come amid growing friction between Washington and Jerusalem over the Trump administration's Iran ceasefire initiative.

What did Netanyahu say?

In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu acknowledged the importance of the US-Israel alliance but rejected the notion that Washington is Israel's sole influential partner.

"We have some other friends, like a small country called India. You know, it has 1.4 billion people and, boy, do we have tremendous support there," Netanyahu said.

The Israeli leader also pointed to the response he receives from Indians on social media, saying he is "flooded" with supportive messages, which he cited as evidence of the goodwill Israel enjoys in the country.

Why did Netanyahu respond to JD Vance?

Netanyahu's remarks came after Vance criticised Israeli officials who had voiced concerns over the US-brokered agreement aimed at ending the conflict with Iran.

Speaking to reporters, Vance said:

"Donald Trump is the only head of state in the entire world who is sympathetic to the nation of Israel."

He further warned that Israeli leaders should avoid attacking "the only powerful ally" they have left, referring to the United States and stressing the extent of American military and diplomatic support for Israel.

India-Israel ties

India and Israel have steadily expanded their strategic partnership over the past decade, with cooperation spanning defence, agriculture, technology, cybersecurity and trade.

Netanyahu has frequently described Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a close friend, while both countries have strengthened bilateral engagement through high-level visits and joint initiatives.

Although India has traditionally supported a two-state solution in the Israel-Palestine conflict, it has also deepened defence and economic cooperation with Israel, making the relationship one of New Delhi's key strategic partnerships in West Asia.

US-Israel relationship remains central

Despite disagreeing with Vance's characterisation, Netanyahu reiterated that the United States remains Israel's closest strategic ally.

His comments appeared aimed at emphasising that while American support remains indispensable, Israel has also cultivated meaningful partnerships with countries such as India and others across the globe.

The exchange highlights subtle differences in how leaders in Washington and Jerusalem view Israel's international standing, particularly as the region adjusts to the aftermath of the Iran ceasefire agreement and ongoing security challenges.

Diplomatic significance

Netanyahu's public reference to India underscores the growing importance of India-Israel relations in global diplomacy.

His remarks also reflect Israel's broader effort to showcase a diversified network of international partners beyond its long-standing alliance with the United States.

While there is little dispute over Washington's role as Israel's principal military and diplomatic backer, Netanyahu's comments signal that Jerusalem sees countries like India as increasingly important strategic friends on the global stage.