The Media Line: Modi Tells Knesset ‘Nothing Can Justify Terrorism’ as India Deepens Strategic Partnership With Israel 

Modi Tells Knesset ‘Nothing Can Justify Terrorism’ as India Deepens Strategic Partnership With Israel 

By The Media Line Staff 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his historic address to Israel’s Knesset on Wednesday to deliver a message of solidarity, counterterrorism cooperation, and expanding technological ties, marking the centerpiece of the first day of his two-day visit. Speaking in Jerusalem alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Modi framed the trip as a milestone in relations between two “ancient civilizations” seeking closer strategic alignment during a period of regional tension. 

Opening his speech, Modi told lawmakers, “I bring with me the greetings of 1.4 billion Indians and a message of friendship, respect and partnership,” while recalling that he was “born on the same day that India formally recognized Israel.” He drew a strong connection between the countries’ security challenges, condemning the October 7 Hamas attack and declaring, “We feel your pain. We share your grief. India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction in this moment and beyond.” 

A central theme of the address was counterterrorism. Modi stated, “Nothing can justify terrorism,” and urged coordinated international action, warning that “terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere.” He also linked Israel’s experience to India’s own history with attacks such as the 2008 Mumbai assault, reinforcing what he described as a shared policy of zero tolerance toward terrorism. 

Beyond security, Modi presented a forward-looking economic vision. He called Israel an innovation partner and pushed for deeper collaboration in artificial intelligence, infrastructure, green technology, and digital solutions, while backing efforts to advance a Free Trade Agreement and expand joint projects under frameworks such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. 

The Indian leader also addressed regional diplomacy, expressing support for a UN Security Council–endorsed Gaza peace initiative and urging dialogue aimed at “durable peace and regional stability.” His remarks reflected India’s attempt to balance its traditional ties with the Palestinian cause while strengthening relations with Israel, which have grown rapidly since Modi’s landmark 2017 visit. 

Netanyahu praised Modi during the session, describing India as a key partner and welcoming closer cooperation in defense and technology. The visit comes as Israel seeks new strategic allies beyond Europe and the US, while India expands its Middle East footprint through security partnerships and trade. 

Modi’s first day concluded with meetings focused on innovation and defense cooperation, with additional talks and a meeting with President Isaac Herzog expected before the visit ends Thursday.