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Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured with the prestigious Speaker of the Knesset Medal during his visit to Israel, becoming the first global leader to receive the Israeli Parliament’s highest honour. The award recognises his role in strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Israel.

The medal was presented by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana after Modi addressed the Israeli Parliament in Tel Aviv. Expressing gratitude, Modi said he accepted the honour with humility and dedicated it to the enduring friendship between the two nations. He described the award as a reflection of shared democratic values and growing cooperation between India and Israel.

Growing partnership

Over the past several years, relations between New Delhi and Tel Aviv have expanded significantly. Cooperation now covers defence, technology, agriculture, innovation, and economic projects. Israeli officials credited Modi’s personal commitment for giving new momentum to bilateral ties.

This visit is Modi’s second trip to Israel in nine years, following his landmark 2017 visit that elevated the relationship to a strategic partnership. During the current visit, both sides are focusing on deeper collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum technology, and defence manufacturing. Talks are also progressing on a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement to boost trade and investment.

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Balanced West Asia policy

Modi is among the rare world leaders to have received top honours from both Israel and the State of Palestine. In 2018, he was awarded the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine for supporting India-Palestine relations. This dual recognition highlights India’s balanced and independent approach in West Asia.

His two-day state visit from February 25–26, 2026, comes at a time of regional tensions but signals India’s intent to deepen partnerships based on technology, security cooperation, and economic growth. The latest honour is widely seen as a symbol of India’s rising diplomatic profile and its expanding role in the West Asian region.