This Honour Is For The Friendship Between India And Israel, Says PM Modi On Receiving Medal Of The Knesset

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his gratitude and utmost humility while accepting the Medal of the Knesset in Israel.

On PM Modi’s visit to Israel, the Knesset, Israel’s Parliament, conferred him the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal,’ making him the first-ever recipient of this prestigious award. ​

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana presented the medal to PM Modi immediately after his address to the lawmakers in Jerusalem. ​

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “I am deeply honoured to receive the Medal of the Knesset. I accept it with humility and gratitude. This honour is not a tribute to an individual, but to the enduring friendship between India and Israel. It reflects the shared values that guide our two nations.”

The Award highlights PM Modi’s role in deepening bilateral ties across defence, technology, agriculture, innovation, and economic cooperation. ​

The accolade, regarded as the highest distinction conferred by the Knesset, recognises Prime Minister Modi’s outstanding personal leadership in deepening and advancing the strategic partnership between India and Israel.

PM Modi said that after his Knesset address, he, along with Netanyahu, is on the way to an exhibition which showcases strides made in the world of technology. ​

Conferred with the honour, PM Modi earlier delievered an historic speech in the Knesset during his visit to Israel, the first by an Indian Prime Minister, receiving a standing ovation from members.

In his remarks, he expressed gratitude for the honour, calling it a recognition of the enduring friendship between the two democracies. ​

This distinction adds to PM Modi’s rare global stature, as he remains one of the few leaders honoured at the highest level by both Israel and Palestine.

Also Read: From 2006 To 2026: How PM Modi’s Israel Visits Shaped A Strategic Partnership