Jerusalem buzzed with excitement as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a stirring tribute to Narendra Modi in the Knesset, calling him more than a friend—a brother. The February 25 event saw the Israeli parliament alive with ‘Modi’ chants, lawmakers standing to honor the Indian PM, and a Hindi welcome from Speaker Amir Ohana.
‘You are a great friend of Israel, a champion of our alliance, and a leader on the world stage,’ Netanyahu proclaimed. He fondly recalled their previous encounter on the Mediterranean shore, where they kicked off their shoes to wade into the waters—a metaphor for their unpretentious camaraderie. Since then, trade has doubled, collaborations tripled, and mutual understanding quadrupled.
Netanyahu shared the airport reunion, describing the tight ‘Modi hug’ he gave in front of global cameras, joined by his wife Sara. This personal touch highlighted the robust India-Israel relationship, forged through years of strategic alignment.
Ohana’s Hindi address added a cultural bridge, welcoming Modi as the first Indian PM to speak to the Knesset and etching another chapter in history. The speech not only celebrated personal ties but also the thriving partnership in defense tech, agriculture, and beyond. With Modi leading India’s rise and Netanyahu steering Israel’s innovations, their alliance stands as a beacon of resilience and progress.