Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about the Palestine issue during his address at the Knesset on Wednesday. He said the Trump administration’s Gaza Peace Initiative offers hope for lasting peace in the region.

Modi is on a two-day state visit to Israel, his second trip to the country. He noted that he is the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset.

Support for Gaza Peace Initiative

During his speech, Modi described the initiative as a fair and long-term solution.

“Gaza Peace Initiative holds the promise of a just and durable peace for all the people of the region, including by addressing the Palestine issue. The road to peace is not always easy but India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region," Modi said.

He added that the plan has backing from the UN Security Council. He confirmed India’s strong support for the effort. Referring to the ongoing tensions in West Asia, he stressed the need for regional peace and assured Israel of India’s support during difficult times.

Reference to Abraham Accords

Modi also spoke about past diplomatic breakthroughs in the region. He mentioned the Abraham Accords, praising Israel’s leadership at the time.

“Some years ago, when you concluded the Abraham Accords, we applauded your courage and vision. It was a moment of new hope for our long-troubled region. Since then, however, the situation has changed significantly and path is more challenging," he said.

As he began his address, lawmakers gave him a standing ovation. He also received the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal,” becoming the first person to receive this highest honour. The award recognises his personal leadership in strengthening strategic ties between India and Israel.

What Is the Gaza Peace Initiative?

The current Gaza Peace Initiative refers to the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict. US President Donald Trump introduced the 20-point roadmap in October 2025.

As of February, the plan has moved into Phase II. This stage followed an earlier ceasefire period after the recovery of the last Israeli hostage remains earlier this year.

The initiative stands out for its “business-first” model for rebuilding Gaza. It also uses a special oversight body instead of the traditional United Nations or Palestinian Authority control.

The plan is supervised by the Board of Peace, chaired by Trump. The board held its first formal meeting in Washington DC on February 19.

More than 50 countries have engaged with the board. However, some European nations have chosen to remain observers rather than full members. They have raised concerns about the board’s wide powers and the involvement of leaders such as Vladimir Putin.

India’s Calibrated Approach

India has taken what officials call a “calibrated engagement” approach. Instead of becoming a formal member of the Board of Peace, New Delhi joined as an observer.

At the same time, India repeated its long-standing support for a sovereign and independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders. This position shows that India does not favour solutions focused only on Gaza’s economy if they overlook the broader Palestinian issue.

Overall, Modi’s speech highlighted India’s backing for peace efforts while maintaining its traditional stand on Palestine and regional stability.