Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a private meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, Israel, today. The two leaders reviewed all aspects of India-Israel bilateral relations and discussed expanding cooperation in areas such as water management, agriculture, technology, and more.
In a social media post, Prime Minister Modi said he had a very productive meeting with Mr. Netanyahu. Key areas discussed included technology, water resource management, agriculture, cooperation in human capital development, and other sectors with significant potential for collaboration. The Prime Minister also said they had a detailed discussion about major developments in the region.
Addressing the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Modi said it was an honor to address the distinguished House. He extended the greetings of 1.4 billion Indians and conveyed a message of friendship, respect, and partnership to the gathering. He said he had always felt a strong connection to Israel, as he was born on the same day that India formally recognized Israel, September 17, 1950.
Prime Minister Modi offered condolences for the lives lost during the horrific terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7th. He said that Indians feel their pain and share their grief. He added that India stands firmly with Israel, with full conviction in this moment and beyond.
The Prime Minister said that no cause can justify the murder of civilians and that nothing can justify terrorism. He said that India has also experienced the pain of terrorism for a long time. He mentioned the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the innocent lives lost, including Israeli citizens. He said that India has a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism, with no double standards. He added that terrorism aims to destabilize society, to hinder development, and to erode trust. He emphasized that countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere. The Prime Minister stressed that this is why India supports all efforts that contribute to durable peace and regional stability.
Mr. Modi said that there is great admiration in India for Israel's resolve, courage, and achievements. He added that Jewish communities have lived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination. He said that they have preserved their faith and participated fully in society. He said that this is a source of pride for India.
Addressing the Knesset, the Israeli Prime Minister called Mr. Modi a dear friend, saying he was deeply moved by the visit. He called Prime Minister Modi a great friend of Israel and a great champion of the Indian-Israeli alliance. Mr. Netanyahu described Prime Minister Modi as not just a friend but a brother. He emphasized that trade between the two countries has doubled, cooperation has tripled, and mutual understanding has quadrupled, signaling a deepening partnership between Israel and India.
Prime Minister Modi received a standing ovation at the Knesset.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome upon his arrival. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with his wife Sara Netanyahu, welcomed Mr. Modi at the airport. In a social media post, Mr. Modi conveyed his deep appreciation for the honor of being received by Benjamin Netanyahu and Ms. Sara Netanyahu at the airport. He added that he looked forward to engaging in bilateral discussions and achieving fruitful outcomes that would further strengthen the India-Israel friendship.
The Ministry of External Affairs said in a social media post that this is Prime Minister Modi's second visit to Israel in nine years. Israel is an important partner of India across strategic and technological domains, with deep cooperation in science and technology, innovation, defense, and agriculture. The relationship is anchored in mutual trust, shared priorities, and a growing convergence in futuristic technologies.