Did Israel wait for Modi to leave? A timeline of PM’s Israel visit and the Iran missile strikes

Israel’s missile strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026, came barely days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his high-profile Israel visit, a sequence that has sparked speculation about whether the operation was timed methodically.

While the proximity of events is striking, there is no official confirmation that Israel delayed the attack because of Modi’s presence. Still, the timeline raises interesting questions.

Feb 25: Modi arrives in Israel

PM Modi began a two-day visit to Israel focused on defence cooperation, technology partnerships and regional security. The visit took place amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, with fears of military confrontation already circulating in strategic circles.

Feb 25–26: Strategic meetings

PM Modi held talks with Israeli leaders and addressed the Israeli parliament, underlining deepening strategic ties. Regional security, including the Iran question, featured prominently in discussions, according to diplomatic briefings.

Feb 26–27: PM Modi departs

The Prime Minister concluded his engagements and left Israel after completing official meetings. The visit proceeded without any visible signs of imminent military escalation.

Feb 28: Israel strikes Iran

Within roughly 48 hours of Modi’s departure, Israel launched what it described as a pre-emptive missile strike targeting Iranian military and nuclear-linked infrastructure. Explosions were reported in multiple locations across Iran, marking one of the most serious escalations in recent years.

Coincidence or calculation?

Large-scale military operations are typically planned weeks or months in advance, suggesting the strikes were not triggered by PM Modi’s visit. However, governments often avoid conducting major attacks while foreign leaders are present for security and diplomatic reasons.

The sequence does not prove coordination, but it suggests Israel may have preferred to act after a major diplomatic visit concluded, avoiding the risk of a visiting world leader being caught in a rapidly escalating conflict.