'Nothing can justify barbaric terrorism, India stands with Israel'; PM Modi at Knesset

TEL AVIV: Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. “There is no justification for terrorism and the killing of civilians. India will always stand with Israel.” PM Modi was addressing the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, on Wednesday. PM Modi said that he conveys his condolences on behalf of the Indian people to the families of those killed in the brutal terrorist attack by Hamas.

Meanwhile, Modi's statement was greeted with a standing ovation by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and others in parliament. Modi pointed to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks to mention how India went through the same ordeal of terrorism. Modi also said that he was born on September 17, 1950, the day India officially recognised Israel. PM Modi expressed support for the Gaza peace efforts and said that everyone in the region needs justice and lasting peace. Modi is the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset. The Indian Prime Minister was honoured with the 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal', the Knesset's highest honour.

Netanyahu described India as a great power state and called Modi not only a friend but also a brother.