Jerusalem – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded on Thursday to U.S. State Department spokesperson Vedant “Vicky” Vance’s remark that the United States remains Israel’s “only ally,” by emphasizing Israel’s broader diplomatic ties, notably with India.
In a televised interview, Netanyahu said, “We have some other friends, like India,” after Vance’s comment was reported in a briefing to the press. The prime minister’s statement came amid ongoing tensions over Israel’s foreign policy and the United States’ continued military and diplomatic support for Jerusalem.
Vance, speaking on behalf of the State Department, had reiterated Washington’s commitment to Israel’s security, describing the bilateral relationship as “the cornerstone of stability in the Middle East.” The remark was interpreted by some analysts as a reaffirmation of the U.S. as Israel’s singular strategic partner.
Netanyahu’s reference to India highlights a growing partnership that includes defense cooperation, trade, and technology exchange. Over the past decade, India and Israel have signed multiple agreements on agriculture, water management, and cyber‑security, and have conducted joint military exercises. The prime minister’s comment suggests an effort to diversify Israel’s strategic outreach beyond Washington.
Analysis: Netanyahu’s remarks serve a dual purpose. Domestically, they counter any perception that Israel is overly dependent on the United States, reinforcing a narrative of diplomatic independence. Internationally, invoking India underscores a strategic pivot toward Asian powers, which could appeal to Indian policymakers seeking deeper security ties amid regional challenges. However, the United States continues to provide the bulk of Israel’s military aid, and the “only ally” characterization remains accurate in terms of defense financing and political backing in multilateral forums. Netanyahu’s statement may therefore be more rhetorical than indicative of a substantive shift in alliance structures.
Sources
– Times of India, “‘We have some other friends, like India’: Netanyahu pushes back after Vance calls US only ally of Israel,” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/we-have-some-other-friends-like-india-netanyahu-pushes-back-after-vance-calls-us-only-ally-of-israel/articleshow/132201235.cms
Story synopsis gathered from: Times of India – Top Stories — source
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