India’s Modi tells Israel’s Knesset: ‘No cause justifies killing civilians’
Al Jazeera
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a speech at Israel’s Knesset during his two-day visit, expressing strong support for Israel’s actions in Gaza and condemning the October 7 Hamas-led attack as “barbaric.” He reiterated India’s unwavering support for Israel, despite criticism over its stance on the conflict with Palestine. Modi’s address marked a significant moment in India-Israel relations, reflecting their deepening partnership.
Modi praised Israel’s “vital” relationship with India, highlighting mutual interests in areas like artificial intelligence and quantum technology. He emphasized that their collaboration contributes to global stability and prosperity. Netanyahu reciprocated the sentiment, calling Modi “more than a friend, a brother,” and thanking India for its support during the recent conflict.
The visit comes amid tensions between India and Israel over Palestine. While Modi expressed solidarity with Israel, domestic critics, such as Congress’s Imran Masood, urged him to address Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. This reflects the growing divide in Indian public opinion on the issue. Despite criticism, India remains Israel’s largest arms buyer, with $20.5 billion spent on Israeli weapons between 2020 and 2024.
Modi’s visit underscores India’s strategic alignment with Israel, despite its stated commitment to Palestinian rights. The relationship has grown significantly since Modi’s first trip in 2017, reflecting both nations’ shared conservative political leanings and mutual security interests. As global tensions over the Middle East persist, Modi’s support for Israel signals India’s broader shift toward aligning with Western policies, raising questions about its role in regional diplomacy.
This visit matters because it highlights India’s growing influence on the world stage and its complex stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict. While Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace through international platforms like the UN Security Council, his strong backing of Israel has drawn criticism at home and abroad. The outcome of this visit could shape India’s role in Middle Eastern diplomacy and its relationships with both Israel and Palestine.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/25/2026