PM Modi in Israel highlights: India backs Gaza peace plan, declares 'terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere'

#### India stands with Israel, says PM Modi Addressing the Israeli Parliament, PM Modi condemned the Hamas attack in October 2023 and said India stands with Israel. “We feel your pain. We share your pain. India stands with Israel firmly with full conviction in this moment and beyond,” said PM Modi. Read the full story below ### PM Modi tells MPs in Jerusalem that India stands with Israel ‘firmly with full conviction’ PM Modi expresses India's unwavering support for Israel and condolences for victims of the Hamas attack during a speech in Jerusalem. • February 26, 2026 01:37 Netanyahu tweets in Hindi, says he surprised ‘Friend’ Modi in traditional indian attireIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweets in Hindi, “Before our joint dinner, I surprised my friend Prime Minister Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweets in Hindi, “Before our joint dinner, I surprised my friend Prime Minister Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire.” • February 26, 2026 01:35 Modi ‘more than a friend’, says NetanyahuDescribing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “more than a friend”, his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday showered praises on the Indian leader and thanked him for standing by Israel’s side after the dastardly attack of October 7, 2023.PM Modi was among the first world leaders to condemn the deadly attacks by Hamas in which almost 1,200 Israelis were killed and some 250 kidnapped.“Prime ministers and heads of state come to the Knesset and it’s always an exciting moment for all of us. But my dear friend Narendra, I’m especially moved by your visit. You are a great friend of Israel and a great leader at the world stage....Narendra, you are more than a friend. You are a brother,” an emotional Mr. Netanyahu said at the beginning of his speech.-PTI Describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “more than a friend”, his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday showered praises on the Indian leader and thanked him for standing by Israel’s side after the dastardly attack of October 7, 2023. PM Modi was among the first world leaders to condemn the deadly attacks by Hamas in which almost 1,200 Israelis were killed and some 250 kidnapped. “Prime ministers and heads of state come to the Knesset and it’s always an exciting moment for all of us. But my dear friend Narendra, I’m especially moved by your visit. You are a great friend of Israel and a great leader at the world stage....Narendra, you are more than a friend. You are a brother,” an emotional Mr. Netanyahu said at the beginning of his speech. • February 26, 2026 00:40 Modi, Netanyahu attend Technology and Innovation ExhibitionPrime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attend a technology and innovations exhibition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attend a technology and innovations exhibition. • February 25, 2026 23:40 In Picture | Netanyahu, Modi share a ride to exhibition of technologies and innovationsHCBWsbmaEAAQdD0.jpg HCBWsbmaEAAQdD0.jpg • February 25, 2026 22:04 PM Modi conferred with Israel’s ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) conferred with the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ in recognition of his exceptional contribution to strengthening strategic relations between India and Israel.PM Modi is the first leader to receive this medal, which is the highest honour of the Knesset — the Israeli Parliament.Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana conferred the award on the Prime Minister after his address at the Israeli Parliament. PM Modi is a rare world leader who has received top awards from both Israel and Palestine.Read the full story belowPM Modi conferred with Israel’s ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’PM Modi receives Israel’s 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal' for strengthening India-Israel strategic relations during his historic visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) conferred with the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ in recognition of his exceptional contribution to strengthening strategic relations between India and Israel. PM Modi is the first leader to receive this medal, which is the highest honour of the Knesset — the Israeli Parliament. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana conferred the award on the Prime Minister after his address at the Israeli Parliament. PM Modi is a rare world leader who has received top awards from both Israel and Palestine. Read the full story below ### PM Modi conferred with Israel’s ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ PM Modi receives Israel’s 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal' for strengthening India-Israel strategic relations during his historic visit. • February 25, 2026 22:03 Committed to expanding trade, strengthening investment flows: PM ModiPM Modi highlights an ambitious Free Trade Agreement to boost India’s global trade.“We are committed to expanding trade, strengthening investment flows, and promoting joint infrastructure development. The Bilateral Investment Treaty signed last year will provide confidence and predictability to our businesses. In the last few years, India has concluded a number of important trade agreements with other nations,” PM Modi said.“To your west, the European Union and the UK. To your east, the UAE and Oman. Our bilateral goods trade has grown significantly in recent years, but it does not reflect the full scope of opportunity. That is why our teams are working hard to negotiate an ambitious free trade agreement. It will unlock the vast untapped potential in our trade relationship,” he added.- PTI PM Modi highlights an ambitious Free Trade Agreement to boost India’s global trade. “We are committed to expanding trade, strengthening investment flows, and promoting joint infrastructure development. The Bilateral Investment Treaty signed last year will provide confidence and predictability to our businesses. In the last few years, India has concluded a number of important trade agreements with other nations,” PM Modi said. “To your west, the European Union and the UK. To your east, the UAE and Oman. Our bilateral goods trade has grown significantly in recent years, but it does not reflect the full scope of opportunity. That is why our teams are working hard to negotiate an ambitious free trade agreement. It will unlock the vast untapped potential in our trade relationship,” he added. • February 25, 2026 21:56 India will be among the top three economies globally, claims PM ModiPM Modi said that India will be among the top three economies globally.“My first visit to Israel was in 2006 as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Later in 2017, during my visit to Israel as Prime Minister, the two countries elevated the relationship to a strategic partnership. Since then, our engagement has expanded in scale and scope,” he said.“For the last few years, India has been the fastest-growing major economy in the world. Soon, we will be among the top three economies globally. At the same time, Israel is a powerhouse of innovation and technological leadership,” PM Modi added. PM Modi said that India will be among the top three economies globally. “My first visit to Israel was in 2006 as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Later in 2017, during my visit to Israel as Prime Minister, the two countries elevated the relationship to a strategic partnership. Since then, our engagement has expanded in scale and scope,” he said. “For the last few years, India has been the fastest-growing major economy in the world. Soon, we will be among the top three economies globally. At the same time, Israel is a powerhouse of innovation and technological leadership,” PM Modi added. • February 25, 2026 21:43 Jewish people have lived without fear of persecution or discrimination in India: PM ModiAddressing the Israeli Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Jewish communities have lived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination. They have preserved their faiths and participated fully in society.”Assuring the partnership between two countries, PM Modi said, ”In today’s uncertain world, a strong defence partnership between trusted partners like India and Israel is of vital importance.” Addressing the Israeli Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Jewish communities have lived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination. They have preserved their faiths and participated fully in society.” Assuring the partnership between two countries, PM Modi said, ”In today’s uncertain world, a strong defence partnership between trusted partners like India and Israel is of vital importance.” • February 25, 2026 21:37 India expresses its firm support for Gaza Peace InitiativePM Modi claimed that the U.N. Security Council-endorsed Gaza Peace Initiative provides a way forward. “India has expressed its firm support for the initiative. We believe that it holds the promise of a just and durable peace for all the people of the region, including by addressing the Palestine issue. Let all our efforts be guided by wisdom, courage, and humanity. The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region,” said PM Modi. PM Modi claimed that the U.N. Security Council-endorsed Gaza Peace Initiative provides a way forward. “India has expressed its firm support for the initiative. We believe that it holds the promise of a just and durable peace for all the people of the region, including by addressing the Palestine issue. Let all our efforts be guided by wisdom, courage, and humanity. The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region,” said PM Modi. • February 25, 2026 21:33 No cause can justify the murder of civilians: PM ModiPM Modi said that no cause can justify the murder of civilians and 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 citizens... we have a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism with no double standards,” said PM Modi in the Israeli Parliament.“The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region. No cause can justify the murder of civilians; nothing can justify terrorism,” he added. PM Modi said that no cause can justify the murder of civilians and 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 citizens... we have a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism with no double standards,” said PM Modi in the Israeli Parliament. “The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region. No cause can justify the murder of civilians; nothing can justify terrorism,” he added. • February 25, 2026 21:10 PM Modi stood by us, says Netanyahu in Israeli ParliamentAddressing the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, PM Benjamin Netanyahu hailed PM Modi and called him a great leader on the world stage.“India is a gigantic power of almost one and a half billion people. Israel is somewhat smaller, but Israel is gigantic too. I want to say that the alliance between us is an enormous multiplier of our individual powers, an enormous multiplier...You stood with us,” Mr. Netanyahu. Addressing the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, PM Benjamin Netanyahu hailed PM Modi and called him a great leader on the world stage. “India is a gigantic power of almost one and a half billion people. Israel is somewhat smaller, but Israel is gigantic too. I want to say that the alliance between us is an enormous multiplier of our individual powers, an enormous multiplier...You stood with us,” Mr. Netanyahu. • February 25, 2026 20:56 Netanyahu welcomes PM Modi in the KnessetIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) on February 25, 2026.“Narendra, my dear friend, I am deeply, deeply moved by your visit here today.. Welcome to Jerusalem, my dear friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and your distinguished delegation,” said Mr. Netanyahu. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) on February 25, 2026. “Narendra, my dear friend, I am deeply, deeply moved by your visit here today.. Welcome to Jerusalem, my dear friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and your distinguished delegation,” said Mr. Netanyahu. • February 25, 2026 20:43 PM Modi receives rousing welcome at the KnessetPrime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome at the Knesset, with members of the Israeli Parliament greeting him with applause. Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome at the Knesset, with members of the Israeli Parliament greeting him with applause. • February 25, 2026 20:37 WATCH | PM Modi at the Knesset of Israel​​​​ • February 25, 2026 20:17 PM Modi arrives at Israeli ParliamentPrime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, where he will be addressing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, where he will be addressing. • February 25, 2026 20:00 Quietly slipped off to Israel after my challenge to scrap U.S. deal: Rahul's dig at PM ModiCongress leader Rahul Gandhi took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying it has been more than 24 hours since he challenged the PM to scrap the India-U.S. interim trade deal, and once again, he (Mr. Modi)has “quietly slipped off to Israel”.In a post in Hindi on X, Mr. Gandhi said, “Narendra ‘Surrender’ Modi, it’s been more than 24 hours since I challenged you to cancel the US Trade Deal -- and once again, you’ve quietly slipped off to Israel.”“At least once, you’ve already ‘danced and sung’ in Israel at Epstein’s behest - so this time, on whose orders will you strike a deal against the country’s interests and return?” the leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha said.Speaking in Bhopal, Gandhi on Tuesday had said the Indo-U.S. interim trade deal was sealed under pressure and dared Prime Minister Modi to scrap the “anti-farmer” agreement, following the US Supreme Court ruling.-PTI Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying it has been more than 24 hours since he challenged the PM to scrap the India-U.S. interim trade deal, and once again, he (Mr. Modi)has “quietly slipped off to Israel”. In a post in Hindi on X, Mr. Gandhi said, “Narendra ‘Surrender’ Modi, it’s been more than 24 hours since I challenged you to cancel the US Trade Deal -- and once again, you’ve quietly slipped off to Israel.” “At least once, you’ve already ‘danced and sung’ in Israel at Epstein’s behest - so this time, on whose orders will you strike a deal against the country’s interests and return?” the leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha said. Speaking in Bhopal, Gandhi on Tuesday had said the Indo-U.S. interim trade deal was sealed under pressure and dared Prime Minister Modi to scrap the “anti-farmer” agreement, following the US Supreme Court ruling. • February 25, 2026 19:07 Citing emails, Congress alleges Epstein laid foundation of India-Israel ties post-2014 The Congress on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) cited several email exchanges made public under the ‘Epstein Files’ in the U.S. to allege that the foundation of the India-Israel relationship post-2014 was laid down and shaped by convicted American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.Congress’ media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said India’s foreign policy regarding Israel and Palestine has always been based on the ‘two-nation’ theory but an “America-Israel lobby” changed the state and direction of the decades-old foreign policy.“Jeffrey Epstein is a notorious sex offender for the common people, but a hero for the Modi government’s foreign policy. Even after death, Jeffrey Epstein lives on in the Modi government’s decisions and policies,” Mr. Khera.- PTIEDS: THIRD PARTY IMAGE In this image received on Feb. 25, 2026, Congress leader Pawan Khera addresses a press briefing at the Congress headquarters, in New Delhi. (AICC via PTI Photo)(PTI02_25_2026_000154B) The Congress on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) cited several email exchanges made public under the ‘Epstein Files’ in the U.S. to allege that the foundation of the India-Israel relationship post-2014 was laid down and shaped by convicted American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Congress’ media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said India’s foreign policy regarding Israel and Palestine has always been based on the ‘two-nation’ theory but an “America-Israel lobby” changed the state and direction of the decades-old foreign policy. “Jeffrey Epstein is a notorious sex offender for the common people, but a hero for the Modi government’s foreign policy. Even after death, Jeffrey Epstein lives on in the Modi government’s decisions and policies,” Mr. Khera. EDS: THIRD PARTY IMAGE In this image received on Feb. 25, 2026, Congress leader Pawan Khera addresses a press briefing at the Congress headquarters, in New Delhi. (AICC via PTI Photo)(PTI02_25_2026_000154B) • February 25, 2026 18:44 PM Modi acting under pressure, claims Prithviraj ChavanCongress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) sought to know why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was visiting Israel at a time when tensions are high in the region.Referring to PM Modi’s ongoing Israel visit, Mr. Chavan pointed out that only two days ago India asked all its nationals to leave Iran by any means amid fears that the United States could launch military strikes against Iran.“What was the reason to go there in such a hostile situation when no one knows what is happening?” the Congress leader asked.- PTI Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) sought to know why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was visiting Israel at a time when tensions are high in the region. Referring to PM Modi’s ongoing Israel visit, Mr. Chavan pointed out that only two days ago India asked all its nationals to leave Iran by any means amid fears that the United States could launch military strikes against Iran. “What was the reason to go there in such a hostile situation when no one knows what is happening?” the Congress leader asked. • February 25, 2026 17:56 PM Modi’s Israel visit: Balancing strategic ties amid West Bank tensions Modi’s Israel visit: Balancing strategic ties amid West Bank tensionsModi's Israel visit aims to strengthen strategic ties amid West Bank tensions and discuss cooperation in various sectors. ### Modi’s Israel visit: Balancing strategic ties amid West Bank tensions Modi's Israel visit aims to strengthen strategic ties amid West Bank tensions and discuss cooperation in various sectors. • February 25, 2026 17:39 Great honour to welcome PM Modi to Israel: Netanyahu • February 25, 2026 17:33 Looking forward to engage in bilateral discussions: PM ModiPrime Minister Narendra Modi remarks upon his arrival at the airport, “I am incredibly honoured to be received by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Mrs. Netanyahu.“I look forward to engaging in bilateral discussions and fruitful outcomes that strengthen the India-Israel friendship,” PM Modi wrote on X.​​ Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarks upon his arrival at the airport, “I am incredibly honoured to be received by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Mrs. Netanyahu. “I look forward to engaging in bilateral discussions and fruitful outcomes that strengthen the India-Israel friendship,” PM Modi wrote on X. • February 25, 2026 17:29 MEA spokesperson Jaiswal highlights strong bilateral ties“Shalom Israel! Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in Israel,” posts Randhir Jaiswal, MEA spokesperson. In nine years, this is PM Modi’s second trip to Israel.“Israel is an important partner of India across strategic and technological domains, with deep cooperation in science and technology, innovation, defence and agriculture. The relationship is anchored in mutual trust, shared priorities and a growing convergence in futuristic technologies,” he added. “Shalom Israel! Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in Israel,” posts Randhir Jaiswal, MEA spokesperson. In nine years, this is PM Modi’s second trip to Israel. “Israel is an important partner of India across strategic and technological domains, with deep cooperation in science and technology, innovation, defence and agriculture. The relationship is anchored in mutual trust, shared priorities and a growing convergence in futuristic technologies,” he added. • February 25, 2026 17:22 PM Modi meets Israel's NetanyahuPM Narendra Modi meets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv. Following the meeting, PM Modi is scheduled to depart for Jerusalem. PM Narendra Modi meets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv. Following the meeting, PM Modi is scheduled to depart for Jerusalem. • February 25, 2026 16:57 Watch: PM Modi receives ceremonial welcome in Tel Aviv Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel on a two-day visit during which he will hold meetings with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, address the parliament and interact with the Indian diaspora.The Prime Minister was given a ceremonial red carpet welcome.This is Mr. Modi’s second visit to Israel after 2017.After a meeting with Mr. Netanyahu at the airport, Mr. Modi will address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to have the honour.- PTI Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel on a two-day visit during which he will hold meetings with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, address the parliament and interact with the Indian diaspora. The Prime Minister was given a ceremonial red carpet welcome. This is Mr. Modi’s second visit to Israel after 2017. After a meeting with Mr. Netanyahu at the airport, Mr. Modi will address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to have the honour. • February 25, 2026 16:40 Watch: PM Modi greeted by Israel PM Netanyahu upon his arrival in Tel Aviv • February 25, 2026 16:38 CPI(M) issues statement against PM Modi's visit to IsraelStrongly opposing the visit of PM Modi to Israel, Communist Party of India (Marxist), in a statement said that the Modi visit is a betrayal of the Palestinian cause and legitimises the murderous Netanyahu regime. “The declared intent of the visit is also to deepen strategic, military and economic ties with a Zionist expansionist regime which seeks to dominate the region with the help of the United States,” it added. Strongly opposing the visit of PM Modi to Israel, Communist Party of India (Marxist), in a statement said that the Modi visit is a betrayal of the Palestinian cause and legitimises the murderous Netanyahu regime. “The declared intent of the visit is also to deepen strategic, military and economic ties with a Zionist expansionist regime which seeks to dominate the region with the help of the United States,” it added. • February 25, 2026 16:18 Watch: PM Modi arrives in Tel Aviv • February 25, 2026 16:01 Watch: Visuals from Israel ahead of PM Modi's arrival • February 25, 2026 15:34 PM Modi should raise the issue of the genocide in Gaza: Congress MP Tariq Anwar • February 25, 2026 14:01 Watch: Visuals from Jerusalem, ahead of PM Modi's arrival • February 25, 2026 13:16 State of Israel looking forward to welcome PM Modi: Israel President • February 25, 2026 12:13 India’s Israel tilt | An excerpt from Stanly Johny’s Original Sin In the 76 years of its existence, Israel has built itself as a powerful entity in a largely hostile region. But, says Stanly Johny in his new book, Original Sin: Israel, Palestine and the Revenge of Old West Asia , despite all the progress it has made, is a dark reality surrounding the state of Israel — the continuing occupation of Palestinian territories. The foreign affairs editor of The Hindu has been on multiple visits to the region, both pre and post the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023. In this edited excerpt, he explains why the two-state solution is practically dead, and traces the changes and continuity in India-Israel relations.Click below to read more:India’s Israel tilt | An excerpt from Stanly Johny’s Original SinIsrael's dark reality of occupation explored by Stanly Johny, highlighting the dead two-state solution and India-Israel relations. In the 76 years of its existence, Israel has built itself as a powerful entity in a largely hostile region. But, says Stanly Johny in his new book, Original Sin: Israel, Palestine and the Revenge of Old West Asia , despite all the progress it has made, is a dark reality surrounding the state of Israel — the continuing occupation of Palestinian territories. The foreign affairs editor of The Hindu has been on multiple visits to the region, both pre and post the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023. In this edited excerpt, he explains why the two-state solution is practically dead, and traces the changes and continuity in India-Israel relations. Click below to read more: ### India’s Israel tilt | An excerpt from Stanly Johny’s Original Sin Israel's dark reality of occupation explored by Stanly Johny, highlighting the dead two-state solution and India-Israel relations. • February 25, 2026 11:27 Congress leader reacts to PM Modi's trip to IsraelReacting to PM Modi’s visit to Israel, Congress leader Shama Mohamed says that going to Israel at a time when the Israelis are against PM Netanyahu is not the right time to visit Israel Reacting to PM Modi’s visit to Israel, Congress leader Shama Mohamed says that going to Israel at a time when the Israelis are against PM Netanyahu is not the right time to visit Israel • February 25, 2026 10:39 Parliamentary panel questions timing of PM Modi’s Israel visit amid regional tensions Ahead of PM Modi’s visit to Israel, members of Parliament’s Standing Committee on External Affairs raised concerns over the timing of the trip.The Standing Committee, chaired by senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, met to discuss the Ministry of External Affairs’ (MEA) budgetary allocations. During the over three-hour meeting, at least one member questioned the rationale behind the Prime Minister’s visit at a time when India has issued an advisory urging citizens to leave Iran amid fears of a possible U.S. strike. The member noted that Israel, too, could be drawn into the unfolding conflict.Click here to read more on this... Ahead of PM Modi’s visit to Israel, members of Parliament’s Standing Committee on External Affairs raised concerns over the timing of the trip. The Standing Committee, chaired by senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, met to discuss the Ministry of External Affairs’ (MEA) budgetary allocations. During the over three-hour meeting, at least one member questioned the rationale behind the Prime Minister’s visit at a time when India has issued an advisory urging citizens to leave Iran amid fears of a possible U.S. strike. The member noted that Israel, too, could be drawn into the unfolding conflict. • February 25, 2026 10:13 PM Modi emplanes for Israel, to become first Indian PM to address Knesset • February 25, 2026 09:42 Modi displaying 'moral cowardice' when world is critical of Netanyahu: Jairam RameshThe Congress on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his Israel visit, saying the PM will be displaying “moral cowardice” when the entire world is critical of his “dear friend” and Israeli Premier Benjamin Netanyahu.Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said Prime Minister Modi is “brazenly embracing” his Israeli counterpart, who has reduced Gaza to rubble and dust and who is orchestrating the expansion of illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank.“On May 20, 1960, Jawaharlal Nehru was in Gaza and met with the Indian contingent of the U.N. Emergency Force there,” Mr. Ramesh recalled. “On November 29, 1981, India issued a commemorative postage stamp in solidarity with Palestine and on November 18, 1988, India formally recognised the state of Palestine,” he pointed out.“That was a different era. Now the Indian Prime Minister is brazenly embracing the Prime Minister of Israel, who has reduced Gaza to rubble and dust and who is orchestrating the expansion of illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank,” Mr. Ramesh said on X.- PTI​​ The Congress on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his Israel visit, saying the PM will be displaying “moral cowardice” when the entire world is critical of his “dear friend” and Israeli Premier Benjamin Netanyahu. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said Prime Minister Modi is “brazenly embracing” his Israeli counterpart, who has reduced Gaza to rubble and dust and who is orchestrating the expansion of illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. “On May 20, 1960, Jawaharlal Nehru was in Gaza and met with the Indian contingent of the U.N. Emergency Force there,” Mr. Ramesh recalled. “On November 29, 1981, India issued a commemorative postage stamp in solidarity with Palestine and on November 18, 1988, India formally recognised the state of Palestine,” he pointed out. “That was a different era. Now the Indian Prime Minister is brazenly embracing the Prime Minister of Israel, who has reduced Gaza to rubble and dust and who is orchestrating the expansion of illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank,” Mr. Ramesh said on X. • February 25, 2026 09:32 Honour of becoming the first Indian PM to address Knesset: PM Modi in his departure statement.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India and Israel share a robust and multifaceted strategic partnership that has witnessed remarkable growth and dynamism, and he is looking forward to his discussions with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.Before embarking, PM Modi said he was confident that his visit would further consolidate the “enduring bonds” between India and Israel, set new goals for the strategic partnership, and advance the countries’ shared vision for a resilient, innovative, and prosperous future.“I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Netanyahu aimed at further strengthening our cooperation across various domains, including science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management... defence and security, trade and investment, as well as people-to-people ties,” he said in his departure statement.The Prime Minister said the two leaders will also exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. “I will also have the honour of becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, an occasion that would be a tribute to the strong parliamentary and democratic ties that bind our two nations,” he said.PM Modi said he is looking forward to interacting with the members of the Indian diaspora who have long been nurturing the India-Israel friendship.- PTI Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India and Israel share a robust and multifaceted strategic partnership that has witnessed remarkable growth and dynamism, and he is looking forward to his discussions with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Before embarking, PM Modi said he was confident that his visit would further consolidate the “enduring bonds” between India and Israel, set new goals for the strategic partnership, and advance the countries’ shared vision for a resilient, innovative, and prosperous future. “I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Netanyahu aimed at further strengthening our cooperation across various domains, including science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management... defence and security, trade and investment, as well as people-to-people ties,” he said in his departure statement. The Prime Minister said the two leaders will also exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. “I will also have the honour of becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, an occasion that would be a tribute to the strong parliamentary and democratic ties that bind our two nations,” he said. PM Modi said he is looking forward to interacting with the members of the Indian diaspora who have long been nurturing the India-Israel friendship. • February 25, 2026 09:24 Hope PM Modi mentions genocide in Gaza while addressing Knesset: PriyankaCongress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) hoped Prime Minister Narendra Modi would mention the genocide in Gaza while addressing the Israeli Parliament and demand justice for them.The Congress MP from Wayanad said India must continue to show the light of truth, peace and justice to the world.In a post on X, Ms. Gandhi said, “I hope that the Hon Prime Minister @narendramodi ji mentions the genocide of thousands of innocent men, women and children in Gaza while addressing the Knesset on his upcoming trip to Israel and demands justice for them.”Read the story here Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) hoped Prime Minister Narendra Modi would mention the genocide in Gaza while addressing the Israeli Parliament and demand justice for them. The Congress MP from Wayanad said India must continue to show the light of truth, peace and justice to the world. In a post on X, Ms. Gandhi said, “I hope that the Hon Prime Minister @narendramodi ji mentions the genocide of thousands of innocent men, women and children in Gaza while addressing the Knesset on his upcoming trip to Israel and demands justice for them.” • February 25, 2026 09:01 Netanyahu says Israel 'tightening alliances' with allies, calls India 'gigantic power'Describing India as a “gigantic power”, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel is “tightening alliances” with its allies, as he mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jerusalem next week.Mr. Netanyahu made the comments while addressing the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) Cadets’ Graduation Ceremony in Bahad 1 (IDF Officers School), about 190 kms south of Jerusalem, on Thursday (February 19).“We will also act to tighten alliances with our allies. Next week, the Prime Minister of India will visit the country – a gigantic power,” Mr. Netanyahu said.Read the story here Describing India as a “gigantic power”, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel is “tightening alliances” with its allies, as he mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jerusalem next week. Mr. Netanyahu made the comments while addressing the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) Cadets’ Graduation Ceremony in Bahad 1 (IDF Officers School), about 190 kms south of Jerusalem, on Thursday (February 19). “We will also act to tighten alliances with our allies. Next week, the Prime Minister of India will visit the country – a gigantic power,” Mr. Netanyahu said. • February 25, 2026 08:59 Congress slams PM’s Israel visit amid West Asia tensionsThe Congress on Tuesday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Israel, questioning the timing of the visit amid escalating tensions in West Asia.Israel’s “dispossession and displacement of thousands of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank has intensified and drawn worldwide condemnation”, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh said in a post on social media platform X.“Israel’s attacks on civilians in Gaza continue mercilessly. Israel and the United States were ‘planning air assaults on Iran’, Mr. Ramesh added.“Yet the Prime Minister is going to Israel tomorrow to embrace his good friend Mr. Netanyahu,” Mr. Ramesh wrote, referring to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.Read the story here The Congress on Tuesday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Israel, questioning the timing of the visit amid escalating tensions in West Asia. Israel’s “dispossession and displacement of thousands of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank has intensified and drawn worldwide condemnation”, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh said in a post on social media platform X. “Israel’s attacks on civilians in Gaza continue mercilessly. Israel and the United States were ‘planning air assaults on Iran’, Mr. Ramesh added. “Yet the Prime Minister is going to Israel tomorrow to embrace his good friend Mr. Netanyahu,” Mr. Ramesh wrote, referring to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. • February 25, 2026 08:55 Israel’s LoP requests Netanyahu to facilitate Opposition’s participation in Modi’s parliamentary addressIsrael’s opposition has pleaded with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resolve the ongoing political crisis to ensure its participation during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the Knesset.Mr. Modi will undertake a two-day visit to Israel beginning Wednesday to shore up bilateral defence and trade cooperation.PM Modi’s engagements will include his address to Israel’s parliament (Knesset), wide-ranging talks with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and a meeting with President Isaac Herzog.Israel’s opposition is demanding that the President of the Supreme Court of Israel, Yitzhak Amit, be invited to PM Modi’s address to the parliament, as per protocol, otherwise they will not attend the event.Read the story here Israel’s opposition has pleaded with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resolve the ongoing political crisis to ensure its participation during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the Knesset. Mr. Modi will undertake a two-day visit to Israel beginning Wednesday to shore up bilateral defence and trade cooperation. PM Modi’s engagements will include his address to Israel’s parliament (Knesset), wide-ranging talks with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and a meeting with President Isaac Herzog. Israel’s opposition is demanding that the President of the Supreme Court of Israel, Yitzhak Amit, be invited to PM Modi’s address to the parliament, as per protocol, otherwise they will not attend the event. • February 25, 2026 08:49 An Israel visit — its strategic, economic, regional impactThe West Asian region is staring at the possibility of its worst-ever military conflict with one of the largest American military buildups in the Persian Gulf. Iran is defiant and has refused to bow down to ‘unreasonable demands’ from the United States. Concurrently, in Gaza, although the ceasefire has held since October 2025, the prospects of lasting peace still look remote. In addition, emerging fault lines in the region are drawing allies such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia into opposing military blocs.This will be PM Modi’s second visit to Israel, following his historic first visit in July 2017 — the first by any Indian Prime Minister. Notably, this is a standalone visit with no engagement with Palestinian Authority leadership, highlighting India’s success in “de-hyphenating” its Israel engagement.An Israel visit — its strategic, economic, regional impactPrime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Israel is a standalone visit and one that defines an important partnership The West Asian region is staring at the possibility of its worst-ever military conflict with one of the largest American military buildups in the Persian Gulf. Iran is defiant and has refused to bow down to ‘unreasonable demands’ from the United States. Concurrently, in Gaza, although the ceasefire has held since October 2025, the prospects of lasting peace still look remote. In addition, emerging fault lines in the region are drawing allies such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia into opposing military blocs. This will be PM Modi’s second visit to Israel, following his historic first visit in July 2017 — the first by any Indian Prime Minister. Notably, this is a standalone visit with no engagement with Palestinian Authority leadership, highlighting India’s success in “de-hyphenating” its Israel engagement. ### An Israel visit — its strategic, economic, regional impact Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Israel is a standalone visit and one that defines an important partnership • February 25, 2026 08:45 PM Modi’s Israel visit faces geopolitical headwindsAs Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for a stand-alone visit to Israel on Wednesday to upgrade bilateral relations, its timing faces geopolitical headwinds. While defence and security, labour and trade, AI and technology, and IMEC project connectivity will be at the top of the agenda for his meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the outcomes will go beyond bilateral agreements to their symbolism and the message they send to the wider West Asian region.Mr. Netanyahu’s plans to announce a “hexagonal alliance” with India, Greece and Cyprus, and some unnamed Arab, African and Asian countries against “both radical Sunni and Shia axes”, will be watched closely by those countries seen to be targeted, including Iran, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, each of which has historical and complex ties with India. Any announcements on trilateral cooperation between India, the UAE and Israel during the visit will also have an impact in the region, where UAE-Saudi tensions are rising. PM Modi’s Israel visit faces geopolitical headwindsModi's Israel visit encounters geopolitical challenges amid regional tensions, U.S. threats, and complex international relations dynamics. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for a stand-alone visit to Israel on Wednesday to upgrade bilateral relations, its timing faces geopolitical headwinds. While defence and security, labour and trade, AI and technology, and IMEC project connectivity will be at the top of the agenda for his meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the outcomes will go beyond bilateral agreements to their symbolism and the message they send to the wider West Asian region. Mr. Netanyahu’s plans to announce a “hexagonal alliance” with India, Greece and Cyprus, and some unnamed Arab, African and Asian countries against “both radical Sunni and Shia axes”, will be watched closely by those countries seen to be targeted, including Iran, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, each of which has historical and complex ties with India. Any announcements on trilateral cooperation between India, the UAE and Israel during the visit will also have an impact in the region, where UAE-Saudi tensions are rising. ### PM Modi’s Israel visit faces geopolitical headwinds Modi's Israel visit encounters geopolitical challenges amid regional tensions, U.S. threats, and complex international relations dynamics. • February 25, 2026 08:45 Ahead of PM’s expected Israel visit, India strikes balancing act, hosts Arab Foreign MinistersAhead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit to Israel later this month, India is striking a balancing act, reaching out to the Arab world and hosting the second India-Arab Foreign Ministers meeting on Friday (January 30, 2026). Palestine’s Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin will attend the meeting, a day after she called on India to contribute to the massive reconstruction work required in the war-ravaged Gaza Strip.“The invitation was extended,” Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar told news agency ANI in Delhi, in response to reports about the impending visit. “We are in preparations, and in due time, there will be declarations regarding specific dates,” he added.Read the whole story here Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit to Israel later this month, India is striking a balancing act, reaching out to the Arab world and hosting the second India-Arab Foreign Ministers meeting on Friday (January 30, 2026). Palestine’s Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin will attend the meeting, a day after she called on India to contribute to the massive reconstruction work required in the war-ravaged Gaza Strip. “The invitation was extended,” Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar told news agency ANI in Delhi, in response to reports about the impending visit. “We are in preparations, and in due time, there will be declarations regarding specific dates,” he added. • February 25, 2026 08:45 PM Modi on two-day visit to Israel from today, to address KnessetPrime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Israel on a two-day visit from February 25, sources said on Monday (February 16, 2026).Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu first broke news of Mr. Modi’s visit while addressing the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations in Jerusalem on Sunday (February 15). “Parliament address on the anvil. Who’s coming here next week? Narendra Modi,” Mr. Netanyahu told the gathering.“Tremendous alliance between Israel and India, and we are going to discuss all sorts of cooperation. Now, you know, India is not a small country. It has 1.4 billion people. India is enormously powerful, enormously popular,” he added.A source in Jerusalem told PTI that PM Modi’s visit is “likely to be short from February 25 to 26”, but “its impact is deep given the popularity Modi enjoys not only in Israel but around the world”.Read the story here Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Israel on a two-day visit from February 25, sources said on Monday (February 16, 2026). Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu first broke news of Mr. Modi’s visit while addressing the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations in Jerusalem on Sunday (February 15). “Parliament address on the anvil. Who’s coming here next week? Narendra Modi,” Mr. Netanyahu told the gathering. “Tremendous alliance between Israel and India, and we are going to discuss all sorts of cooperation. Now, you know, India is not a small country. It has 1.4 billion people. India is enormously powerful, enormously popular,” he added. A source in Jerusalem told PTI that PM Modi’s visit is “likely to be short from February 25 to 26”, but “its impact is deep given the popularity Modi enjoys not only in Israel but around the world”. Published - February 25, 2026 08:41 am IST ### Related Topics India / Israel / Israel-Palestine Conflict / Live news / diplomacy / international relations