India’s Modi tells Israel’s Knesset: ‘No cause justifies killing civilians’ | Narendra Modi News
Indian Prime Minister Defends Israel During Knesset Address
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi affirmed India’s steadfast support for Israel during a speech at the Knesset on Wednesday, marking the first address by an Indian leader to the Israeli parliament. Modi’s visit comes amid ongoing concerns regarding allegations of genocide against the Palestinian people amidst the Israel-Gaza conflict.
In his remarks, Modi condemned the October 7 attack by Hamas-affiliated militants as “barbaric” and asserted that “no cause can justify the murder of civilians.” He emphasized, “India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction, in this moment and beyond,” receiving a standing ovation from Knesset members.
Upon arrival at Ben Gurion International Airport, Modi was welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who expressed gratitude for India’s support in light of recent events and praised the two nations’ “common interests.” Netanyahu referred to Modi as “more than a friend, a brother.”
Modi expressed India’s “strong support” for a Gaza peace initiative approved by the United Nations Security Council in November, suggesting it offers a viable pathway toward a “just and durable peace for all the people of the region.” He highlighted the relationship between India and Israel as one of “trusted partners,” contributing to global stability and prosperity.
Describing the ties between the two countries as “vital” for trade and security, Modi pointed to their collaboration in sectors such as artificial intelligence and quantum technology. “We are committed to further consolidating this relationship across many sectors,” he added.
India’s ties with Israel have notably strengthened since Modi’s 2017 visit, which followed a warming of relations after his election in 2014. Netanyahu visited India in 2018, further solidifying their diplomatic connections.
However, Modi faces criticism domestically for his support of Israel amid reported civilian casualties in Gaza, where recent hostilities have claimed at least 72,073 lives and injured over 171,000, including during a ceasefire.
Congress party MP Imran Masood urged Modi to address the humanitarian concerns in Gaza during his visit, stating, “if there is any morality, then he should talk about the death of children in Gaza.” Marian Alexander Baby, leader of the Communist Party of India, described Modi’s engagement with Israel as a departure from India’s anti-colonial legacy and long-standing support for the Palestinian cause, a stance reaffirmed by numerous UN resolutions.
India, identified as Israel’s largest arms buyer, has spent approximately $20.5 billion on Israeli defense equipment between 2020 and 2024. During the same period, trade between the two nations, primarily focused on defense and security, reached $3.9 billion.
Modi’s visit is set to continue on Thursday.
