Israel recognises PM Modi leadership and role in strengthening India–Israel strategic partnership with its top parliamentary medal
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Speaker of the Knesset Medal, the highest honour given by Israel’s Parliament, during his official visit to Jerusalem on February 25, 2026. With this recognition, he became the first Indian Prime Minister to receive this prestigious award and also the first leader to be honoured with the medal since it was introduced.
The Speaker of the Knesset, Amir Ohana, presented the medal to PM Modi after his historic speech in the Israeli Parliament. The award recognises his efforts in strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Israel and expanding cooperation in defence, technology, agriculture, innovation and trade.
First PM Address
Before receiving the honour, PM Modi addressed the Knesset, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to speak in Israel’s Parliament. In his speech, he spoke about the deep historical and cultural ties between India and Israel. He said the relationship between the two countries stands on shared democratic values, trust and mutual respect.
He explained that India and Israel have built a strong partnership since establishing full diplomatic relations in 1992. He also recalled that the relationship was upgraded to a Strategic Partnership during his 2017 visit to Israel, which opened a new chapter in bilateral ties.
Strong Stand Terrorism
During his address, PM Modi strongly condemned terrorism. Referring to global terror attacks, including the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, he said:
“No cause can justify the murder of civilians. Nothing can justify terrorism.”
He expressed solidarity with Israel and said that terrorism is a threat to humanity and global peace. He urged the international community to come together and take coordinated action against terrorism.
Peace Dialogue Support
At the same time, PM Modi stressed the importance of dialogue and long-term peace in the Middle East. He said that lasting peace can only come through continuous diplomatic efforts and cooperation. He reaffirmed India’s consistent position in supporting peace, stability and dialogue in the region.
He acknowledged that the road to peace is not easy, but said that countries must keep working toward solutions that ensure security and development for all.
Also Read: PM Modi Extends ‘Blessing And Wishes’ to Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna Before Marriage
Expanding Strategic Cooperation
PM Modi highlighted the growing cooperation between India and Israel in several key areas. He spoke about joint work in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, semiconductors, quantum technology, renewable energy and agriculture.
He said both countries are also working toward finalising a Free Trade Agreement, which is expected to boost trade and investment significantly. Over the years, trade between the two nations has steadily increased, especially in defence, high technology and innovation sectors.
During the visit, leaders from both sides discussed strengthening institutional cooperation and enhancing parliamentary exchanges to deepen understanding between the two democracies.
Meaning Of Honour
The Speaker of the Knesset Medal was established in 2026 to honour individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the State of Israel and the Jewish people. PM Modi is the first recipient of this medal in 2026.
The honour reflects the strong and growing friendship between India and Israel. Israeli leaders praised PM Modi’s leadership and commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the India–Israel relationship as a “wondrous friendship” and appreciated Modi’s role in strengthening ties between the two countries.
Rare Diplomatic Achievement
This recognition is especially significant because PM Modi had earlier received the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine in 2018, which is Palestine’s highest civilian honour for foreign leaders.
With top honours from both Israel and Palestine, PM Modi is among very few world leaders to receive such recognition from both sides. This reflects India’s balanced and independent approach in its Middle East diplomacy.
Modi Statement X
After receiving the Speaker of the Knesset Medal, PM Modi shared his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote:
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Medal of the Knesset.”
“I accept it with humility and gratitude.”
“This honour is not a tribute to an individual, but to the enduring friendship between India and Israel.”
“It reflects the shared values that guide our two nations.”
Through his message, PM Modi made it clear that he sees the award as a symbol of the strong and lasting friendship between India and Israel, not as a personal achievement.
Strengthened Bilateral Relations
PM Modi’s speech at the Knesset and the conferment of the Speaker of the Knesset Medal mark an important milestone in India–Israel relations. The visit highlighted cooperation in security, technology, trade and people-to-people connections.
The honour and the strong messages delivered during the visit showed the deep trust and growing partnership between the two nations. It also underlined India’s rising global presence and its commitment to building strong relationships with key international partners.
khushisikarwar is an award-winning journalist and content creator who thrives on telling stories that matter. As a key contributor to Newsisland, [she] focus on cultural commentary, providing readers with thought-provoking insights.
