INDIA NEWS

India stands with Israel in fight against terrorism: PM Modi

Thursday, 26 Feb, 2026
PM Narendra Modi also received a standing ovation in the Knesset. (Photo courtesy: Bharatiya Janata Party)

Tel Aviv: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India stands firmly and with full conviction with Israel in the fight against terrorism. In a first-ever address to the Israeli parliament, Knesset, by an Indian Prime Minister, Modi delivered a powerful message of solidarity with Israel, asserting that terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere.

In his landmark speech, which received a huge applause from Israeli parliamentarians, PM Modi expressed condolences for the October 7 Hamas attack in 2023. “I also carry with me the deepest condolences of the people of India for every life lost and for every family whose world was shattered in the barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7. We feel your pain. We share your grief. India stands with Israel firmly, with conviction in this moment and beyond," he said.


From Bhutan in 2014 to the Knesset in 2026 — PM Narendra Modi has now addressed foreign Parliaments 19 times. (Infographic courtesy: MyGovIndia)

“No cause can justify the murder of civilians. Nothing can justify terrorism. India has also endured the pain of terrorism for a long time. We remember the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the innocent lives lost, including Israeli civilians," he continued.

He asserted that just like Israel, India has a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance against terrorism, with no double standards. “Terrorism aims to destabilize societies, to block development and to erode trust. Countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere. That is why India supports all efforts that contribute to peace and regional stability," he added.

He also expressed support for the Gaza peace initiative, saying it holds promise for a just and durable peace in the region. “The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace, and stability in this region," PM Modi said in the Knesset.


PM Benjamin Netanyahu was seen wearing a traditional Indian jacket as he warmly greeted PM Narendra Modi before a private dinner in Israel. (Photo courtesy: X@IsraeliPM)

Netanyahu praises 'brother Narendra'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu showered praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the latter not only his friend but more of a brother. He thanked India for its years-long friendship, saying it is the only civilization where Jews were welcomed and not persecuted.

"A great leader on the world stage. Welcome to Jerusalem, my dear friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and your distinguished delegation. Now, I said, Narendra, my dear friend, these are not just words. I would almost venture to say, more than a friend, a brother," he said in the Knesset, the Israeli Parliament, with PM Modi smiling beside him.