Narendra Modi to Address Israeli Knesset in Historic First

India–Israel Ties Mark Milestone with Knesset Address

Narendra Modi is set to become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the plenum of the Israeli Knesset during his two-day visit to Israel , beginning February 25. The visit, his second since the landmark 2017 trip, reflects the deepening strategic partnership between India and Israel across defence, innovation, and regional cooperation.

Historic Parliamentary Engagement

The address will take place at a special plenary session in Jerusalem , attended by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu , President Isaac Herzog , and senior lawmakers. The event symbolises expanding diplomatic engagement and India’s growing geopolitical relevance in West Asia.

The programme includes ceremonial proceedings, signing of the Knesset guestbook, and bilateral meetings aimed at advancing cooperation.

Bilateral Agenda and Cooperation Areas

Discussions are expected to cover defence collaboration, technological innovation, counter-terrorism, agriculture, and water management. Since establishing full diplomatic relations in 1992, India and Israel have strengthened ties, particularly in defence procurement and advanced technologies.

Israel remains one of India’s key defence partners, while agricultural cooperation has expanded through Centres of Excellence across Indian states.

Political Context in Israel

The visit coincides with domestic political debates within Israel. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has raised procedural concerns linked to parliamentary conventions, highlighting the intersection of diplomatic events with internal political dynamics.

Strategic Significance

The engagement reinforces India’s balanced West Asia policy, maintaining relations with both Israel and Arab nations. It also underscores continuity in India–Israel cooperation amid evolving regional security and economic landscapes.

Exam-Focused Key Points

• India–Israel full diplomatic relations established in 1992.

• Narendra Modi first visited Israel in 2017.

• Knesset is Israel’s unicameral parliament.

• India–Israel ties strong in defence and agriculture.

• West Asia remains strategically vital for India.