Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu surprised his “friend” Narendra Modi with a gesture of cultural respect Wednesday, appearing in traditional Indian attire ahead of a joint dinner during the Indian Prime Minister’s two-day state visit to Israel. “Before our joint dinner, I surprised my friend Prime Minister Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire,” Netanyahu posted on X.
Prime Minister Modi responded in kind, stating on X, “Truly splendid! Your fondness for Indian attire reflects your respect for the rich culture and traditions of our country.” The exchange occurred as Modi became the first Indian prime minister to address the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, on Wednesday.
During his address to the Knesset, Netanyahu hailed Modi as more than a friend, describing him as a “brother.” He lauded India’s steadfast support following the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas. “Right after the horrific attack on October 7, you supported Israel so morally. You didn’t flinch or waver, you stood by Israel and stood by the Jews. Thank you,” Netanyahu said, according to the Associated Press.
Netanyahu as well recalled a shared moment from Modi’s 2017 visit to Israel, referencing a widely circulated image of the two leaders walking barefoot along the Mediterranean coast. “We took off our shoes, and waded in the ocean. We didn’t walk on water but have done miracles,” he stated.
In his address to the Knesset, Modi expressed gratitude for the honor and dedicated the Speaker of the Knesset Medal to the enduring friendship between India and Israel. He emphasized the long-standing civilizational ties between the two nations and highlighted expanding cooperation in key areas including innovation, agriculture, water management, and security, according to the Times of Israel.
Modi reiterated India’s firm stance against terrorism and offered condolences for the victims of the October 7 attacks, asserting that there is no justification for such acts of brutality. The visit, which began Wednesday and continues through Thursday, aims to strengthen security, economic, and technological cooperation between the two countries, the Associated Press reported.
The Indian Prime Minister’s visit follows an invitation from Netanyahu, signaling the importance both countries place on their strategic partnership. The itinerary includes a visit to Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust memorial, in addition to the bilateral talks and Knesset address, as outlined by the Indian Express.