Prime Minister Narendra Modi has etched his name in diplomatic history by becoming one of the few world leaders to receive the highest civilian honours from both Israel and Palestine. The recognition reflects India’s balanced foreign policy approach and its deepening ties with both nations.
During his address at the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, PM Modi was awarded the prestigious “Speaker of the Knesset Medal,” the highest honour conferred by the Knesset. He became the first leader to receive this medal. The award was presented by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana in recognition of PM Modi’s exceptional leadership and his contribution to strengthening the India-Israel strategic partnership.
The honour acknowledges the growing cooperation between the two countries in areas such as defense, technology, agriculture, and innovation. Accepting the award, PM Modi described it as a symbol of the enduring friendship between India and Israel and dedicated it to the shared democratic values of both nations.
This recognition gains added significance as PM Modi had earlier received Palestine’s highest civilian award — the “Grand Collar of the State of Palestine” — in 2018. The award was conferred in appreciation of India’s continued support for Palestinian aspirations and efforts to strengthen India-Palestine relations.
The Grand Collar is the highest honour awarded by Palestine to foreign dignitaries and heads of state. With these two recognitions, PM Modi joins a rare group of global leaders honoured at the highest level by both Israel and Palestine — two nations with historically sensitive and complex relations.
During his speech at the Knesset, PM Modi received a standing ovation from lawmakers. After the address, several members of parliament were seen taking selfies and photographs with him. He praised Israel’s determination, innovation, and achievements, stating that the people of India deeply admire Israel’s resilience and accomplishments.
Highlighting the historical ties between India and the Jewish community, PM Modi referred to ancient connections dating back over two thousand years. He mentioned that the Book of Esther refers to India as “Hodu” and that the Talmud contains references to trade between the two regions in ancient times.
He also expressed pride in India’s record of providing a safe and peaceful environment for the Jewish community over centuries. Jewish traders, he noted, traveled from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean and became an integral part of Indian society without facing persecution or discrimination.
By receiving top honours from both Israel and Palestine, PM Modi’s diplomatic engagement underscores India’s longstanding policy of maintaining strong ties with both nations while advocating dialogue, peace, and cooperation in the region.
