'Not a dry eye left in Israel': PM Modi highlights historic ties between India, Jews; leaves Netanyahu emotional

Tel Aviv: Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's emotional speech at the Knesset (Israeli parliament) during which he referred to the historic ties between the Jews and India, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to say that PM Modi’s words had left “not a dry eye left in Israel”.

Benjamin Netanyahu termed PM Modi’s two-day visit “short but extraordinarily productive and extraordinarily moving”. “This is an amazing visit, an amazing conclusion to an amazing visit. I think there wasn’t a dry eye left in Israel after your moving statement yesterday in the Knesset. Since then, we have had the opportunity to not only look deep into our hearts but also into our remarkable minds that we have in our two countries,” Netanyahu said.

The latest visit marked PM Modi’s second trip to Israel in nine years, during which the two countries signed multiple memoranda of understanding in the presence of the two leaders. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke in the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, it wasn't just a formal address. It was a clear message: There's no compromise on terrorism. There's no room for extremism. And India and Israel stand together on security issues.

What did PM Modi say?

In his nearly half-hour speech, Modi delivered five key signals. These signals made it clear that the India-Israel relationship is no longer just a friendship. It's a strong strategic partnership, a partnership whose impact will be felt throughout the Middle East and South Asia.

First PowerPoint: Unconditional Toughness on Terrorism

Modi clearly stated that terrorism cannot be justified under any circumstances. He spoke directly and without any hesitation. He directly named Hamas and underlined its brutality. He mentioned the attacks Israel has suffered in recent years. India has also suffered terrorism for decades. The pain of both countries is no different. This message wasn't just for Israel. It was for the world. India is no longer speaking the language of balance on terrorism. It is clearly stating that it is a crime against humanity.

Second PowerPoint: The Need to Root Out Extremism

India and Israel are both democracies. Both live in open societies. Both are threatened by ideas that stem from closed thinking. Therefore, the partnership will not be limited to security agencies. There will also be collaboration at the ideological level. Modi hinted that terrorism does not arise suddenly; it is born from extremist thinking. When the politics of hatred grows in society, violence gains ground.

Third PowerPoint: Taking Defense Partnership to New Heights

India has already been acquiring defense technology from Israel: drones, missile systems, surveillance technology. But now it's not just about purchases. The focus is on joint development, building systems together, developing technology together. India is modernizing its military. Israel has experience and technology. Together, they can create a new model.

This cooperation will also make a difference in security alliances like the one between Pakistan and China. India's defense capabilities will be strengthened. And Israel will gain a major strategic partner.

Fourth PowerPoint: Intelligence and Cybersecurity Coordination

Today's battles aren't just fought on borders. They also take place in cyberspace. They involve data and networks. Israel is leading in cybersecurity. India is becoming a digital power. If both countries engage deeply in this area, it will have a major impact on terror networks and funding channels. This cooperation happens quietly, but its impact is profound.

Fifth PowerPoint: An Active Role for Stability in the Region

PM Modi also indicated that India will not simply stand with one side; it will also advocate for peace. The Middle East has long been a zone of tension. India has energy interests in this region. Millions of Indians work there. Therefore, India's role is no longer merely to observe from afar. India stands with Israel, but at the same time, it wants stability in the region. This balance is India's new diplomacy.

What did PM Modi say on security strategy?

PM Modi's speech was both emotional and strategic. He expressed respect for the Israeli people. It was a political signal that India's friendship transcends the government and connects with the people. He also demonstrated that India now speaks confidently on the global stage. It doesn't speak the language of any bloc; it speaks its own language.

"India-Israel relations were formalized in 1992. The journey since then has been long, but in the last few years, there has been a surge in cooperation in every field, including defense, agriculture, water, and technology. Now, this relationship is becoming part of the security structure," PM Modi said.

"If the two countries formulate a joint strategy against terrorism, its impact will not be limited to Gaza or Kashmir. This will increase pressure on international networks. If the partnership in defense technology deepens, India will move faster towards self-reliance. Israel will gain a strong friend in Asia. If cyber and intelligence cooperation increases, preventing terrorist attacks can be more effective," he added.

What is the impact on the entire region?

The Middle East is currently moving towards a new power structure. Iran, the Gulf countries, Israel, and the United States all have their own dynamics. India is no longer just a petroleum buyer in the region. It is becoming a security partner.

Open and clear cooperation with Israel demonstrates India's clearness about its interests. This message reaches Pakistan, and it also reaches those forces that consider terrorism a tool of policy.

Overall, this speech wasn't a formal event. It was a defining moment. In just half an hour, Modi made it clear that the friendship between India and Israel is both emotional and strategic. And that in the years to come, this partnership will not be limited to just two countries. Its impact will be felt on the politics and security of the entire region.