Warm Welcome in Israel
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm greeting style during his visit to Israel, calling the well-known “Modi hug” a symbol of personal friendship and growing ties between the two nations.
Speaking during the visit, Netanyahu said the gesture represents more than a greeting. According to him, it reflects the closeness between the people of India and Israel as well as the leaders of both countries.
A Personal and Diplomatic Gesture
PM Modi has become internationally recognised for greeting world leaders with an embrace rather than the traditional handshake. During his arrival in Israel, the two leaders shared a warm greeting that quickly drew attention.
Netanyahu described the moment as meaningful and genuine, saying such gestures often communicate trust and mutual respect in diplomacy.
He also stated that the relationship between the two countries has developed into both a personal friendship between leaders and a broader partnership between their citizens.
Historic Address to Israeli Parliament
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi addressed Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so.
In his speech, he emphasised cooperation and reaffirmed India’s support in areas related to security and counter-terror efforts. The address highlighted growing strategic cooperation between the two nations.
India–Israel Relations Continue to Grow
Relations between India and Israel have expanded steadily over the years. Cooperation currently covers several sectors:
defence and security cooperation
agriculture technology
water management projects
innovation and research partnerships
PM Modi’s earlier visit in 2017 had opened new avenues for collaboration, and the latest visit is expected to further strengthen bilateral engagement.
Why the Visit Matters
Diplomatic experts say the visit shows the increasing importance of India-Israel relations in global geopolitics. Beyond symbolic gestures, both countries are working together on technology development, trade and security cooperation.
The leaders’ interaction is seen as part of a broader effort to deepen economic and strategic partnerships between the two nations.
❓ FAQ
1. Why did Netanyahu mention the “Modi hug”?
He described it as a symbol of trust and friendship between the leaders and the two countries.
2. What was special about PM Modi’s visit?
He addressed Israel’s parliament, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so.
3. What areas do India and Israel cooperate in?
They work together in defence, agriculture, technology, water management and research.
4. When was Modi’s previous Israel visit?
His earlier visit took place in 2017.
5. Why are India-Israel relations important?
Both countries share strategic interests and collaborate on security, trade and innovation projects.
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