Prime Minister Narendra Modi Delivers Historic Address at Israeli Knesset
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made history on Wednesday by becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Knesset, the nation's parliament, during his two-day official visit to the West Asian country. The landmark speech came hours after his arrival in Israel, marking a significant moment in bilateral relations.
Condemnation of Hamas Terrorist Attack and Message of Solidarity
Beginning his address with traditional greetings of "Shalom" and "Namaste," PM Modi immediately extended India's heartfelt condolences for what he described as the "barbaric terrorist attack" carried out by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The Prime Minister delivered a powerful message of solidarity, stating unequivocally that "no cause can justify the murder of civilians."
"We feel your pain," PM Modi declared to the assembled Israeli lawmakers. "India stands with Israel in this moment and beyond. No cause can justify murder of civilians." This statement underscored India's firm position against terrorism while acknowledging the shared suffering both nations have endured from terrorist violence over many years.
Key Quotes from the Historic Knesset Address
The Prime Minister's speech contained several significant declarations that highlighted the strengthening partnership between India and Israel:
- "I bring with me the greetings of 1.4 billion Indians and a message of friendship, respect and partnership."
- "Countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action, because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere."
- "The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region."
- "India supports the Gaza peace initiative; it holds promise for a just and durable peace for the region."
Warm Reception and Renewed Resolve Against Terrorism
Upon his arrival at the Knesset, Prime Minister Modi received an enthusiastic welcome, with attendees chanting "Modi, Modi" and giving him a standing ovation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu attended the official reception ceremony, demonstrating the high-level engagement between the two nations.
The Israeli Prime Minister's Office confirmed the event in a post on social media platform X, stating: "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu attend official reception ceremony at the Knesset for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi."
PM Modi emphasized that the moment represented renewed resolve between India and Israel against the persistent menace of terrorism, noting that India "has also endured the pain of terrorism for a long time." This shared experience formed a crucial foundation for the strengthened partnership and mutual understanding between the two democracies.
The address marked a significant diplomatic milestone, reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and Israel while clearly articulating India's position on terrorism and regional stability. The Prime Minister's visit and speech have been widely interpreted as strengthening bilateral ties and demonstrating India's active engagement in Middle Eastern diplomacy.
