Against the backdrop of rising regional tensions and competing power axes in the Middle East and Asia, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Israel on Wednesday for a two-day state visit—his second as head of government following his historic first visit in 2017. In both Jerusalem and New Delhi, the current visit is described as a “quantum leap” in relations—elevating them to the level of “special strategic relations,” a term previously reserved for Israel’s closest partnerships with Germany and the United States.
The highlight of the visit was Modi’s speech to the Knesset plenum, which he concluded in Hebrew with the words “Am Israel Chai” (“The People of Israel Live”). He received prolonged applause and chants of “Modi, Modi” from the lawmakers. Contrary to the original plan, he then descended into the plenum, embraced members of parliament, and shook hands—a symbolic gesture of personal and state friendship. An awkward moment occurred when Modi extended his hand to Minister Orit Struck, an Orthodox Jewess, who politely...
Become a Member
-
Read all member content
Get exclusive in-depth reports from Israel.
-
Get exclusive in-depth reports from Israel
Connect with Israel, right from your home.
-
Lift up the voice of truth and hope
Support Jerusalem-based Zionist journalism.
Already a member? Login here.
