In a historic moment brimming with enthusiasm, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Israel’s Knesset on Wednesday during his two-day visit to the nation. The chamber echoed with applause as Modi reflected on his first visit nine years ago, expressing delight at returning to this vibrant democracy.
Modi opened his speech by invoking the tragic Hamas attack of October 7, extending heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families. ‘We feel your pain, we stand with you,’ he declared, underscoring India’s unwavering solidarity with Israel amid the crisis. He firmly stated that no justification exists for the murder of innocents, drawing parallels to India’s own battles with terrorism, including the 26/11 Mumbai attacks that claimed lives, among them Israeli citizens.
Highlighting the harmonious coexistence of Jewish communities in India, free from discrimination, Modi took pride in this shared legacy. He called for a global, united front against terrorism, emphasizing that an attack anywhere threatens peace everywhere. India, he assured, remains a steadfast partner in the pursuit of peace.
Recounting his personal journey—from a 2006 visit as Gujarat Chief Minister to elevating ties to a strategic partnership in 2017—Modi outlined ambitious plans for deeper collaboration. Israel’s reputation as the ‘Startup Nation’ inspired India’s youth innovation drive, evidenced by joint initiatives like the I-Create incubator supporting 900 startups and a recent global AI summit.
Looking ahead, Modi committed to boosting trade, investments, and infrastructure through a new bilateral investment treaty, signaling a new era of economic synergy between the two nations.