The Modi Knesset address marked a decisive diplomatic moment as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India stands “firmly” with Israel following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. Speaking before Israeli lawmakers in Jerusalem, Modi conveyed condolences for victims and signaled deeper strategic cooperation between the two nations.
The address came during a two-day visit aimed at strengthening trade, defence, and technological ties with Israel, even as criticism mounted at home.
Addressing the Knesset, Modi said he carried “the deepest condolences of the people of India for every life lost” in what he described as a “barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas.”
“We feel your pain, we share your grief. India stands with Israel firmly with full conviction in this moment and beyond,” Modi told lawmakers.
While expressing solidarity, Modi did not explicitly reference the tens of thousands of Palestinians killed in Gaza during Israel’s ongoing military campaign. However, he stated that India “supports all efforts that contribute to durable peace and regional stability.”
The remarks closely align with India’s broader diplomatic stance, which balances its strategic ties with Israel while maintaining long-standing relations with Arab nations.
Strategic Talks with Netanyahu Strengthen Bilateral Ties
Earlier in the day, a red carpet reception at Ben Gurion Airport set the tone for Modi’s visit. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greeted Modi with a public embrace, underscoring what Israeli officials described as a “special and personal relationship.”
Netanyahu’s office characterized the meeting as reflecting “a real friendship” between the two right-wing leaders. Modi later described their discussions as “excellent” in a post on X (formerly Twitter), noting that they held an “in-depth conversation about major developments in the region.”
During his speech, Modi emphasized economic complementarity between the two nations.
“India’s economic growth and Israel’s leadership in technological innovation form a natural foundation for our forward-looking partnership,” he said.
He highlighted cooperation in quantum technologies, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and defence production.
According to India’s government, bilateral merchandise trade reached $3.62 billion in 2024–2025, as talks opened in New Delhi on a proposed India-Israel Free Trade Agreement.
International observers note that defence cooperation remains a cornerstone of ties. Israeli drone technology reportedly played a pivotal role during India’s May 2025 military standoff with Pakistan.
For broader regional context, coverage by Reuters and Associated Press has documented how the October 7 attack reshaped Middle East alliances and economic corridors.
Expanding Economic and Strategic Cooperation
Full diplomatic relations between India and Israel were established in 1992. Ties deepened significantly after Modi took office in 2014.
One of India’s largest conglomerates, Adani Group, operates the Israeli port of Haifa, strengthening India’s commercial footprint in the Mediterranean.
In 2023, ambitious plans were unveiled for an India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor linking ports, railways, electricity grids, and data networks through Saudi Arabia and Israel. The initiative stalled after Hamas’s October 7 attack triggered a prolonged conflict in Gaza.
India, home to 1.4 billion people, including an estimated 220 million Muslims, has historically supported a two-state solution while expanding defence and innovation ties with Israel.
Domestic Criticism in India
The Modi Knesset address sparked sharp reactions from opposition figures in India.
Priyanka Gandhi expressed hope that Modi would mention “thousands of innocent men, women and children in Gaza” during his remarks.
Jairam Ramesh accused the prime minister of displaying “moral cowardice,” criticizing his embrace of Netanyahu amid global scrutiny of Israel’s military actions.
Netanyahu recently described India, Greece, Cyprus and several unnamed nations as forming part of a “hexagon of alliances” against what he termed radical axes.
The Gaza conflict has reportedly resulted in over 71,000 Palestinian deaths, according to regional health authorities.
Why It Matters
The Modi Knesset address reflects a strategic recalibration in Asia-Middle East geopolitics.
India’s growing defence and technology ties with Israel carry economic significance, particularly in semiconductors and AI. Politically, the speech signals India’s willingness to align publicly with Israel despite domestic sensitivities.
Regionally, the visit may influence stalled economic corridor initiatives that aim to reshape global trade routes.
Socially, the balancing act tests India’s internal cohesion as a diverse, multi-faith democracy.
What Happens Next
Diplomatic observers expect negotiations on the India-Israel Free Trade Agreement to accelerate.
India may deepen defence co-production arrangements and technology transfers in strategic sectors. At the same time, New Delhi is likely to maintain dialogue with Palestinian leadership to preserve diplomatic balance.
Future developments in Gaza will significantly shape public opinion in India and across the Middle East.
FAQs
What was the main message of the Modi Knesset address?
The address emphasized India’s firm support for Israel after the October 7 Hamas attack while reiterating support for regional peace and stability.
Did Modi mention Gaza casualties?
He did not explicitly reference Palestinian casualties but stated that India supports efforts toward durable peace.
Why is India strengthening ties with Israel?
Strategic interests include defence cooperation, technology partnerships, trade expansion, and geopolitical positioning.
How has India balanced relations in the Middle East?
India maintains ties with Israel while also engaging Arab nations and supporting a two-state solution framework.
