On February 26, 2026, PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti, while speaking to reporters in Anantnag in South Kashmir, strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent two-day visit to Israel (February 25-26, 2026). He described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as an “international criminal,” and referred to his indictment by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes related to the Gaza operation. Mufti said Netanyahu avoids many countries out of fear of arrest and claimed much of the world is opposing him amid the ongoing Gaza conflict, which she linked to civilian deaths for which she holds him responsible.
Mufti described Modi’s interactions—especially the hugs and meetings—as a “betrayal” of India’s traditional foreign policy principles and moral heritage as a “Gandhi country.” He said: “Modi, who represents 140 crore people, goes there and embraces a criminal, meets him and talks to him. I think this is not a good sign for our country, for Gandhi’s India.” He said that this conversation is contrary to India’s historical, balanced, moral approach in global affairs.
This matches Mufti’s long-standing criticism of close India-Israel ties under the BJP government, including allegations of pursuing “Israeli policy” in Kashmir after the removal of Article 370.
Modi’s visit was focused on deepening mutual relations in defence, technology, AI, cyber security, trade and economic sectors. Highlights included the joint statement, agreements, Modi’s speech in the Knesset, visit to Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and promises of solidarity against terrorism. Netanyahu warmly welcomed Modi and the two leaders hugged, showing their strong personal and strategic rapport. The discussions led to a possible free trade agreement and cooperation on security amid regional tensions.
Mufti’s words attracted attention amid the international investigation into Israel’s Gaza actions and the ICC warrant against Netanyahu.
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