JERUSALEM, Feb. 25 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed condolences on behalf of the people of India for the lives lost in the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack by Hamas and reaffirmed India’s consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance against terrorism without double standards.
Addressing the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, Modi said countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere.
“I carry with me the deepest condolences of the people of India for every life lost and for every family whose world was shattered in the barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas on Oct. 7. We feel your pain, we share your grief. India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction in this moment and beyond,” Modi said, receiving a standing ovation.
“No cause can justify the murder of civilians. 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. Like you, we have a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism with no double standards,” he added.
Modi said terrorism aims to destabilize societies, obstruct development, and erode trust, emphasizing the need for unified global efforts to counter the threat.
“Countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere. That’s why India supports all efforts that contribute to durable peace and regional stability,” he said.
The prime minister also referred to International Holocaust Remembrance Day, noting that the Holocaust remains one of humanity’s darkest chapters. He highlighted India’s historic humanitarian role, recalling how the Maharaja of Nawanagar in Gujarat, also known as Jam Saheb, offered refuge to Polish children, including Jewish children, during World War II.
Modi said there is deep admiration in India for Israel’s resilience, courage, and achievements. He also noted the symbolic connection of his birth date with India’s formal recognition of Israel.
“It is a privilege and honor for me to stand before this distinguished house. I do so as the Prime Minister of India and also as a representative of one ancient civilization addressing another. I bring with me the greetings of 1.4 billion Indians and a message of friendship, respect, and partnership,” he said.
Modi recalled his historic 2017 visit, when he became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel, and expressed his happiness at returning.
Earlier, Modi signed the Knesset’s official guest book in Chagall Hall. He arrived in Israel earlier in the day on a two-day state visit, accompanied by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
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