In a striking endorsement amid escalating regional tensions, Israel's Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel has called on India to take center stage in securing lasting peace across the Middle East. Speaking exclusively to NDTV on February 25, 2026, Haskel praised New Delhi's balanced diplomacy and strategic strengths as vital for stabilizing the region.

Haskel highlighted India's unique position as a "good guy" with credible ties to both Israel and Arab nations, urging a powerful trilateral partnership involving India, Israel, and the United States. "India has a major role to play," she stated, emphasizing how this alliance could counter threats from Iran and foster economic prosperity through shared tech and defense expertise.

The comments come on the heels of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's high-profile visit to Israel, where he addressed the Knesset to thunderous applause, reinforcing the deepening India-Israel bond. Modi's speech underscored mutual values of innovation and security, with Israeli lawmakers visibly energized by the prospects of collaboration.

Echoing this sentiment, Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Shahin recently described India as a potential "bridge-builder" between conflicting sides, citing its friendships on both ends of the divide. India's track record—from supplying drones and missile tech to Israel, to delivering humanitarian aid like clinics and schools in Gaza—bolsters its case as an impartial mediator.

As global powers like China and Russia flex their influence, Haskel's remarks signal growing consensus on India's non-aligned approach reviving stalled peace talks or kickstarting joint ventures, such as solar energy grids for post-conflict recovery. With India-Israel trade hitting record highs last year, experts see this as a game-changer for West Asian stability.