“India Stands Firmly with Israel,” PM Modi Tells Knesset

Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India stands “firmly, with full conviction” alongside Israel, as he addressed members of the Knesset during his official visit.

Speaking to applause from Israeli lawmakers, Modi said he brought a message of “friendship, respect and partnership” from India. He thanked Israel for the opportunity to address its parliament and described the relationship between the two countries as strong and enduring.

The visit comes at a time when Israel is facing international scrutiny over its military operations in Gaza. An arrest warrant has been issued by the International Criminal Court against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes. Modi’s visit has sparked criticism from opposition leaders and pro-Palestinian voices in India.

In his speech, Modi strongly condemned the October 7, 2023 attacks, calling them “barbaric.” He said no cause can justify the killing of civilians and reiterated India’s long-standing position of zero tolerance towards terrorism.

“India has endured the pain of terrorism for a long time,” he said, adding that terrorism seeks to destabilize societies and hinder development.

Modi also stated that India supports diplomatic efforts to end the war in Gaza. Referring to a UN-backed peace initiative approved by the United Nations Security Council, he said the proposal offers hope for a just and lasting peace in the region.

“The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and the world in working for dialogue, peace and stability,” he said.

Highlighting growing cooperation between the two nations, Modi described India and Israel as “trusted partners” with vital ties in trade and security. He noted that both sides have signed several agreements, including a Bilateral Investment Treaty last year, and are expanding collaboration in sectors such as artificial intelligence and quantum technology.

“Our partnership contributes to global stability and prosperity,” Modi said, urging continued cooperation in an uncertain world.

Opposition Reacts

Back home, opposition leaders criticised the visit. The Indian National Congress accused the government of abandoning India’s traditional support for Palestine. Party leader Jairam Ramesh said India was among the first countries to recognise the State of Palestine in 1988 and questioned the government’s current stance.

Meanwhile, Asaduddin Owaisi, chief of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), strongly criticised the Prime Minister’s decision to visit Israel during the ongoing conflict.

The developments have added a new political dimension to India’s foreign policy debate, even as New Delhi maintains that its approach balances strategic ties with Israel and support for peace in the region.