Modi Affirms India’s Steadfast Support for Israel During Historic Knesset Address

In a landmark first, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Israel’s Knesset on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, reaffirming India’s unwavering support for Israel and calling for peace in the region. The visit underscores the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.

A Bond of Friendship and Shared History

Prime Minister Modi began his address by acknowledging the privilege of being the first Indian Prime Minister to speak before the Knesset. He highlighted the historical and civilizational connections between India and Israel, noting that he was born on the same day India formally recognized Israel. He emphasized the strong bond of friendship, stating, “India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction, in this moment to beyond.”

Condemnation of Terrorism and Support for Peace

Addressing the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Modi unequivocally condemned the murder of civilians and terrorism. He voiced India’s support for the Gaza peace initiative, expressing hope for a “just and durable peace in the region.” “No cause can justify the murder of civilians, and nothing can justify terrorism,” he stated. He further called for dialogue, peace, and stability.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Defence, Innovation, and Trade

Modi highlighted the growing cooperation between India and Israel in key areas such as defence, innovation, and trade. He described Israel as a “powerhouse of innovation and technological leadership,” and emphasized the importance of a strong defence partnership between the two countries. He noted the foundational importance of the I2U2 framework, involving India, Israel, and the United States.

He also pointed to India’s emergence as a global centre for trade and its focus on innovation, exemplified by its recent AI summit. Recognizing Israel’s expertise in agriculture, Modi highlighted the establishment of 47 centres dedicated to training Indian farmers in advanced water management techniques.

Cultural Parallels and Shared Values

Modi drew parallels between the cultural traditions of India and Israel, referencing similarities between Diwali and Hanukkah – both festivals of lights – and Holi and Purim, both celebratory festivals. He emphasized that the friendship between India and Israel should serve as a source of strength in an uncertain world.

Recognition and Honours

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi was awarded the “Speaker of the Knesset” medal, the highest honour bestowed by the Israeli parliament, making him the first global leader to receive the distinction. Notably, Modi is among a select group of world leaders to have received top civilian honours from both Israel and Palestine, having been awarded the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine in 2018.

Netanyahu’s Praise and Historical Context

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded Modi as a “great friend of Israel” and praised his leadership. He recalled India’s historical support for Jewish communities, noting that India has never persecuted Jews and, during the Ottoman period, Indian commanders supported Jewish forces. “In a world of antisemitism, India is an exception,” Netanyahu stated.

Brief Opposition Walkout

The session was briefly disrupted by a walkout from some Israeli opposition lawmakers protesting a procedural issue related to event invitations. Although, opposition leaders clarified that the walkout was not directed at Prime Minister Modi or his address, and returned to the plenum to welcome him.

Expanding Strategic Partnership

Modi’s visit, his second to Israel in nine years, reflects the continued expansion of ties since the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership in 2017. Defence cooperation has become a central pillar, with Israel supplying India with military platforms and systems. A defence cooperation agreement signed last year further solidified these links. Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement commenced earlier this week, following the signing of a Bilateral Investment Agreement in September 2025, aimed at boosting economic cooperation and investment flows. Collaboration extends to cybersecurity, water management, scientific research, and agricultural technology, supported by a diaspora of over 41,000 Indians in Israel.