Modi Addresses Knesset, Reaffirms India’s Zero-Tolerance Stand on Terror
Tel Aviv, 26 February : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday became the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Knesset, strongly condemning the October 7, 2023 attacks and reiterating India’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism.
In his address, Modi described the October 7 attacks as “barbaric” and said India stood with Israel “in this moment, and beyond.” He stated that no cause could justify the killing of civilians and asserted that terrorism in any form must be rejected unequivocally.
“We feel your pain, share your grief. No cause can justify the murder of civilians. Nothing can justify terrorism,” the Prime Minister said, drawing applause from members of the Israeli Parliament.
Referring to the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, which included Israeli victims, Modi said India, like Israel, follows a consistent and uncompromising stand against terrorism without double standards. He stressed that terrorism seeks to destabilise societies, obstruct development and erode trust, and called for sustained and coordinated global action to counter the threat.
On the situation in Gaza, the Prime Minister said that while the road to peace is not always easy, India stands with Israel and the international community for dialogue, peace and stability in the region. He endorsed the United Nations Security Council-backed peace initiative, describing it as offering a path toward a just and durable peace, including by addressing the Palestine issue.
Modi also referred to the Abraham Accords, noting that India had welcomed the agreements as a moment of hope for a region long affected by conflict. He acknowledged that the situation has since evolved and become more challenging but emphasised the importance of sustaining efforts toward reconciliation and stability.
Following his address, the Prime Minister said he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were scheduled to visit an exhibition highlighting advancements in technology.
The address marked a significant diplomatic milestone in India-Israel relations and underscored the expanding strategic partnership between the two countries.
