Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been honoured with the prestigious Speaker of the Knesset Medal by the State of Israel, a rare distinction that recognises his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation between the two nations. The medal is among Israel’s highest civil honours and is only infrequently conferred on foreign leaders, making this recognition noteworthy in diplomatic circles.
Modi’s receipt of the Knesset Medal comes against the backdrop of expanding ties between India and Israel across defence, security, technology, agriculture, innovation, counter-terrorism and trade. Officials highlighted that the award reflects the deep trust and shared strategic interests that have underpinned India–Israel relations over recent decades. Notably, PM Modi becomes one of the few leaders honoured by both Israel and Palestine, as he was awarded the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, highlighting his engagement with both sides of complex regional dynamics.
Bilateral defence cooperation remains a major pillar of the partnership. India is currently Israel’s largest arms buyer, with defence acquisitions and joint development programmes covering missiles, radars, aerospace systems, intelligence platforms, and other high-tech capabilities. Over the past decade, defence ties have seen accelerated growth, technology transfers, joint exercises and co-development initiatives that contribute to the operational readiness of India’s armed forces.
Trade and technological collaboration have also strengthened India–Israel ties. Indian industries engage with Israeli counterparts in sectors such as cybersecurity, space, water management, agri-tech and start-up ecosystems. Leaders from both sides have emphasised mutual respect, innovation-driven cooperation and shared goals on regional stability and economic progress.
The conferment of the Knesset Medal on PM Modi not only celebrates this deep partnership but also signals confidence in continued strategic alignment between New Delhi and Jerusalem in addressing emerging global challenges.
