Indian Thought Latest News & Views
Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Modi ) delivered a powerful speech in the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, on Wednesday. Addressing the Knesset, PM Modi stated that India has zero tolerance for terrorism, just as Israel does not. He stated that India’s policy against terrorism is clear and strong. Israeli MPs applauded loudly during and after PM Modi’s speech. An interesting scene was witnessed when PM Modi went among the Israeli MPs after his speech, leading to a rush for selfies.
India stands firmly with Israel.
In his speech in the Knesset on Wednesday, PM Modi said, “The killing of civilians and terrorism cannot be justified in any way.” He stressed the need for consistent and coordinated action worldwide to combat terrorism, as terrorism anywhere threatens peace. The Prime Minister said, “India stands firmly with Israel at this time.” He strongly condemned the “barbaric terrorist attack” carried out by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and said, “We feel your pain, we join you in your grief.”
MPs in the Knesset chanted “Modi, Modi”
PM Modi supported the peace initiative in Gaza, saying, “The path to peace is not always easy, but India stands with you and the world for dialogue, peace, and stability in the region.” Extending greetings on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, he said, “I bring a message of friendship, respect, and partnership. The scope and breadth of our engagement has expanded, and we are committed to further strengthening this relationship in many areas.” As PM Modi arrived in the Knesset, MPs stood up and chanted “Modi, Modi.” During his speech, MPs thumped their tables several times in support.
“PM Modi is not just my friend, but my brother.”
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, addressing the Knesset, said that Modi is not just his friend, but his brother. He said, “This is a meeting between two brothers. Its impact is visible on the relationship between the two countries. India is a powerful country. Israel is smaller than India, but together, the two countries can multiply each other’s strength and capabilities. This will benefit the entire world.” Referring to the ancient civilizations of both countries, he said that the cultures of both countries emphasize spiritual purification and spiritual power, and today, together, both countries can show the world a new path.
PM Modi receives Knesset’s highest honor
After the speech, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana honored Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal.” This is the highest honor of the Israeli Parliament, and PM Modi is the first leader to receive it. This medal was awarded for his exceptional contributions to strengthening the strategic relationship between India and Israel. It should be noted that Prime Minister Modi previously received Palestine’s highest honor, the “Grand Collar of the State of Palestine,” in 2018. This makes him one of the few global leaders to receive top awards from both Israel and Palestine. This is PM Modi’s second visit to Israel in the last nine years.
