Zero tolerance for terrorism, no double standards, says Modi in Israel parliament

Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday made history as the first Indian leader to address Israel’s Knesset, offering strong condolences over the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, and reaffirming India’s unwavering support for Israel.

“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,” he said. “We feel your pain. We share your grief. India stands with Israel, firmly, with full conviction, in this moment and beyond. No cause can justify the murder of civilians. Nothing can justify terrorism.”

Modi drew parallels between India and Israel, noting both have “a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism with no double standards,” recalling India’s own experience with terror attacks, including 26/11 Mumbai, which also affected Israeli citizens.

Gaza Peace Initiative and global cooperation

The prime minister explicitly backed the UN Security Council-endorsed Gaza Peace Initiative as the path for “just and durable peace” in the region. “India has expressed its firm support for the initiative. We believe it holds the promise of a just and durable peace for all the people of the region, including by addressing the Palestine issue,” Modi said.

He highlighted the importance of global coordination against terrorism. “Terrorism aims to destabilise societies, to block development, and to erode trust. Countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action, because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere,” he added.

Modi also referenced Israel’s Abraham Accords, calling them “a moment of new hope for a long-troubled region,” while noting the challenges ahead. He stressed that dialogue must be guided by “wisdom, courage, and humanity,” reaffirming India’s commitment to peace and stability.

Strengthening strategic, economic and cultural ties

Modi celebrated India-Israel cooperation across defence, economy, and culture. “India’s economic growth and Israel’s innovation create a natural foundation for partnership,” he said. He stressed the “vital importance” of a strong defence partnership in today’s uncertain world and noted that bilateral engagement has expanded in scale and scope across sectors.

The prime minister also drew a philosophical link between the nations: “In Israel, the principle of Tikkun Olam speaks of healing the world; in India, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam affirms that the world is one family.”

Earlier, Modi received a red-carpet welcome at Ben Gurion Airport from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara. The visit, his second to Israel in nine years, included discussions on defence, a Free Trade Agreement, cultural exchanges, and culminated in Modi being awarded the Knesset’s highest honour, the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal.’

Strengthening strategic and bilateral ties

The visit comes amid Middle East tensions, including worsening US-Iran relations. Defence cooperation remains a key pillar, with Israel supplying multiple military platforms to India. New Delhi is exploring incorporating elements of Israel’s Iron Dome system into its indigenous air defence shield, "Sudarshan Chakra."

Economic ties are also advancing. During Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s November visit, terms of reference for Free Trade Agreement negotiations were signed, and a Bilateral Investment Agreement was inked in September.

People-to-people links continue to be significant, with over 41,000-strong Indian diaspora in Israel contributing to engagement. Modi’s visit included vibrant cultural performances by Indian and Israeli artistes, celebrating enduring friendship between the two nations.