PM Modi in Israel: “We Are Breaking the Jihadist Axis of Evil” — A Historic Address at the Knesset
Article by Pazdin Dalal
India–Israel Strategic Alliance Deepens Amid Regional Tensions: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a historic address at Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, declaring that India stands “firmly with Israel in this moment and beyond.” His speech marked the first time an Indian prime minister addressed the Israeli legislature and underscored the growing strategic alliance between the two nations.
The visit comes at a time of heightened regional instability, with Israel still engaged in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks and broader tensions involving Iran and its regional proxies.
A Strong Message Against Islamist Extremism
In a forceful speech, Modi framed the global fight against terrorism as a defining challenge of the modern era.
“The massacre of October 7 made it absolutely clear: either the jihadist axis of evil will break us, or we will break it — and we are breaking it,” Modi told lawmakers.
He described Israel as “a protective wall against barbarism,” echoing language often used by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when addressing Western audiences.
Modi conveyed India’s condolences to families affected by the October 7 attacks and reaffirmed New Delhi’s support for Israel’s security.
Netanyahu praised Modi’s stance, saying Israel would “never forget” India’s clear moral support after the attacks.
Netanyahu’s Vision: An “Iron Alliance” and a Regional “Hexagon”
Netanyahu used the occasion to promote his broader geopolitical vision: a new regional alliance to counter what he describes as both the “radical Shiite axis” led by Iran and the “emerging radical Sunni axis.”
He proposed a strategic “hexagon of alliances” involving:
- India
- Greece
- Cyprus
- Select Arab nations
- African partners
- Asian allies
According to Netanyahu, cooperation across economic, diplomatic, and security spheres could reshape the Middle East’s balance of power.
Central to this vision is the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), a US-backed maritime and rail project intended to connect India to Europe via the Middle East. Netanyahu described India and Israel as the strongest and most secure anchors of this corridor.
Personal Diplomacy: Modi and Netanyahu’s Close Relationship
The bond between Modi and Netanyahu has been unusually warm by diplomatic standards.
Modi first visited Israel in 2017, becoming the first Indian prime minister to do so. That visit featured symbolic moments — including a now-famous beach walk and technology demonstrations — that signalled a new chapter in bilateral ties.
Netanyahu later described the partnership as “a match made in heaven and consecrated on earth.”
During this 2026 visit, Netanyahu greeted Modi at Ben Gurion Airport with visible warmth, calling him “more than a friend — a brother.” The two leaders held private talks before Modi’s Knesset address.
Both leaders also posted messages in each other’s languages on social media, emphasising mutual respect and partnership.
Gaza, Peace Plans, and Strategic Alignment
Modi expressed support for the Trump administration’s Gaza peace initiative, calling it a framework that could deliver “a just and durable peace,” including addressing the Palestinian issue.
The ceasefire’s second phase includes:
- Demilitarisation of Gaza
- Disarmament of Hamas
- Gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces
However, implementation remains uncertain, with Israeli officials sceptical that Hamas can be disarmed without further military action.
India recognises Palestinian statehood but has avoided strong public criticism of Israel’s war strategy, positioning itself as a strategic partner while maintaining diplomatic balance.
Domestic Political Drama in Israel
Despite the celebratory tone, the visit was briefly overshadowed by internal Israeli political tensions.
Opposition lawmakers initially walked out of the Knesset in protest over procedural disputes involving the Supreme Court president’s exclusion from the special session. They later returned for Modi’s speech to clarify that the boycott was not directed at India.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid personally greeted Modi and emphasised bipartisan respect for India–Israel ties. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana accused critics of risking damage to foreign relations, highlighting how sensitive the visit was for Israel’s diplomatic positioning.
Expanding Economic and Military Cooperation
India and Israel have significantly expanded bilateral cooperation over the past decade.
Key Economic Highlights:
- Bilateral trade reached approximately $5 billion in 2024
- Israel is India’s fourth-largest defence supplier
- Collaboration spans agriculture, water technology, cybersecurity, fintech, health, construction, and telecommunications
Negotiations toward a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are ongoing, though talks have stalled over labour mobility concerns. India has pushed for the inclusion of foreign workers in the agreement, while Israeli policymakers have expressed reservations.
Despite these trade disagreements, both governments appear committed to deepening long-term economic integration.
Symbolic Conclusion: “Am Yisrael Chai” and “Jai Hind”
Modi concluded his address by invoking the Hebrew phrase “Am Yisrael Chai” (The people of Israel live) alongside “Jai Hind” (Long live India), drawing loud applause from lawmakers.
The speech solidified India’s position as a key strategic partner for Israel at a time when Israel’s global standing faces scrutiny over the Gaza conflict.
Why This Visit Matters
Modi’s visit signals several key geopolitical shifts:
- India is positioning itself as a major security actor in the Middle East.
- Israel is seeking to build a broader alliance architecture beyond traditional Western partners.
- Counterterrorism cooperation between New Delhi and Jerusalem is deepening.
- Economic integration and infrastructure corridors like IMEC could reshape regional trade routes.
As Netanyahu seeks to assemble a new regional bloc and India expands its global footprint, this alliance reflects more than symbolism — it represents a recalibration of power politics across the Middle East and South Asia.
Views expressed are those of the Author(s)
