Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday joined a select group of global leaders to have received top state honours from both Israel and Palestine, underscoring India’s balanced engagement in West Asia.
During his two-day state visit to Israel, his second since 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset. He was welcomed by lawmakers with chants and applause. Following his address, he was conferred the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal,” the highest parliamentary honour, by Speaker Amir Ohana, in recognition of his personal leadership in strengthening India-Israel ties. Expressing gratitude, he said the award symbolised the enduring friendship and shared values between the two nations.
In 2018, during his first official visit to Palestine, PM Modi was awarded the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, the highest honour for foreign dignitaries, by President Mahmoud Abbas. He described the recognition as a matter of pride for India and a reflection of strong bilateral friendship.
In his Knesset address, PM Modi highlighted civilisational links between India and Israel, condemned the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack as “barbaric,” reiterated India’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism, referenced the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and voiced support for efforts aimed at durable peace and regional stability.
