Gen Z Sees Israel as Major India Defence Partner, Survey Finds

A pan-Indian survey of Gen Z Indians has indicated a shift in perceptions of India’s international partners, with Israel emerging prominently in views on defence cooperation and diplomatic ties, according to the India Israel Centre.

The survey found that 52 per cent of respondents aged 18-29 considered India-Israel defence ties robust, placing Israel third alongside countries including Russia. France followed at 51 per cent, while the US stood at 46 per cent.

In diplomatic relations, 41 per cent of respondents placed Israel among India’s key partners, compared with 39 per cent for the US. The statement released by the India Israel Centre did not specify the countries ranked above Israel in either category.

The findings, released on September 16, were based on a study conducted using AI platforms, the Centre said.

According to the statement, cultural narratives, pop culture references and podcasts have increasingly highlighted Israel’s role in supporting India during times of conflict. It specifically referred to Israel’s reported delivery of emergency laser-guided munitions and surveillance support to the Indian armed forces during the Kargil war.

The Centre said a substantial section of Gen Z was born after the 1999 Kargil conflict and therefore had grown up with historical perceptions that associated India’s defence partnerships largely with countries such as Russia and the US.

Defence and technological innovation were identified as key factors shaping young Indians’ perceptions of India-Israel relations. Israel’s defence rating increased by five percentage points from the previous year, according to the survey.

India Israel Centre spokesperson Suresh Nakhua said the findings reflected what he described as “deep-rooted trust and affection” between the people of India and Israel, as well as growing public awareness of bilateral ties.

The Centre also said the 22-25 age group was most receptive to stronger cooperation, claiming a fourfold increase in respondents advocating substantially stronger future bilateral relations.