Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a historic speech in the Knesset, becoming the first Indian prime minister to address Israel’s parliament. In his address, he reaffirmed strong India–Israel ties and emphasised a shared commitment to tackling terrorism and strengthening strategic cooperation.
Modi expressed deep sympathy over the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, stating “we feel your pain, we share your grief” and reaffirmed that India stands with Israel firmly and with full conviction. He strongly condemned terrorism, asserting that nothing can justify the killing of civilians and reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism.
The prime minister described India–Israel relations as historic and strategic, underlining cooperation in defence, trade, technology and innovation. He also noted India’s support for efforts aimed at durable peace and regional stability, including backing the Gaza Peace Initiative.
During his visit, both countries are expected to advance cooperation in areas such as defence technology and economic partnerships, signalling a deepening of their strategic alliance in the face of global uncertainties.