Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Speaker of the Knesset Medal, described in official accounts as the highest honour conferred by Israel’s parliament, following his address to the Knesset on February 25, 2026. A social media post by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called Modi the “first‑ever recipient” of the Medal of the Knesset, saying the award was presented during his speech to the Israeli legislature.
The presentation places Modi among a small group of global leaders who have received top civilian honours from both Israel and Palestine, underscoring the diplomatic reach of his visit. Officials and commentators framed the award as a symbol of deepening ties between New Delhi and Jerusalem.
In his address, Modi called the honour a privilege and reflected on the historic connections between two ancient civilisations. He expressed solidarity with Israel and strongly condemned the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, calling it barbaric.
Modi used the platform to reaffirm India’s zero‑tolerance stance on terrorism, invoked India’s own experiences with terror, and voiced support for ongoing peace efforts in Gaza. He also highlighted the growing defence and strategic partnership between India and Israel amid what he described as a period of global uncertainty.
The award and Modi’s remarks signal an intensification of bilateral engagement on security and strategic cooperation, while his public endorsement of peace efforts in Gaza and condemnation of terrorism seek to position India as an active, principled interlocutor in a volatile region.
Original Source: https://www.firstpost.com/india/pm-modi-israel-visit-live-updates-india-israel-relations-netanyahu-hosts-pm-modi-for-dinner-greets-him-in-indian-attire-knesset-address-iron-dome-tech-liveblog-13983785.html
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Publish Date: 2026-02-26 12:45:00
