Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at the Knesset on Wednesday. During his address, he offered condolences for the October 7, 2023 attack carried out by Hamas and reaffirmed India’s strong support for Israel in the fight against terrorism.
India Expresses Solidarity After October 7 Attack
PM Modi conveyed sympathy on behalf of the Indian people for those killed in the assault.
“I also carry with me the deepest condolences of the people of India for every life lost and for every family whose world was shattered in the barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7. We feel your pain. We share your grief. India stands with Israel firmly, with conviction in this moment and beyond," he said.
He stressed that violence against civilians can never be justified. “No cause can justify the murder of civilians. Nothing can justify terrorism. India has also endured the pain of terrorism for a long time. We remember the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the innocent lives lost, including Israeli civilians," he continued.
Addressing the Knesset. Do watch my speech. @KnessetENG https://t.co/a8V6Ah5HwY
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 25, 2026
Zero Tolerance Policy on Terrorism
Modi underlined that India and Israel follow a firm and consistent approach against terrorism. He said both countries apply zero tolerance without double standards.
“Terrorism aims to destabilise societies, to block development and to erode trust. Countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action because terror anywhere threatens peace. That is why, India supports all efforts that contribute to peace and regional stability," he added.
Support for Peace Efforts in Gaza
The Prime Minister also voiced backing for ongoing peace efforts related to Gaza. He said the initiative offers hope for lasting stability.
“The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region," PM Modi said in the Knesset.
Warm Welcome From Israeli Leaders
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warmly received Modi. He described him as a “brother” and praised the close bond between the two nations.
“I’ve never been more moved than by your visit here with us, a great friend of Israel, a great champion of the Indian-Israeli alliance, and a great leader on the world stage," Netanyahu told Modi.
Netanyahu said both nations would form an “iron alliance” of countries “in the face of extremist Islam.” He stated that India and Israel are “stronger than ever” and thanked Modi for standing with Israel after the Hamas-led attack.
Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana also praised Modi. He recalled that Modi was the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel in 2017.
“The friendship between our two nations has stood the test of our shared fight against terrorism. After the October 7 massacre, Prime Minister Modi was one of the first leaders to condemn the atrocities of Hamas and stood in brotherhood with the citizens of Israel," he said.
Overall, Modi’s speech highlighted strong India-Israel ties, a shared stance against terrorism, and support for regional peace and stability.