Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a rare diplomatic distinction by receiving the highest honours from both Israel and Palestine, highlighting India’s balanced and strategic engagement in West Asia. On February 25, 2026, Modi was awarded the Speaker of the Knesset Medal, the highest honour of the Israeli Parliament, becoming the first global leader to receive the recognition.
The medal was presented by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana in Jerusalem in recognition of Modi’s contribution to strengthening India–Israel relations, particularly in areas such as defence cooperation, technology, innovation, and trade. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the growing partnership between the two nations, describing it as a “wondrous friendship.”
Earlier, in 2018, Modi was conferred the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, the highest honour awarded by the Palestinian leadership to foreign dignitaries. The award was presented by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in recognition of India’s continued support for Palestinian aspirations and bilateral cooperation.
During his address at the Knesset, the Indian Prime Minister reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, recalling the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and expressing solidarity with victims of the October 7, 2023 attacks in Israel. He emphasized the need for coordinated global action against terrorism, stating that “terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere.”
Modi also reaffirmed India’s support for peace and stability in Gaza, endorsing diplomatic dialogue and a just and lasting solution. The dual recognition from both Israel and Palestine reflects India’s balanced foreign policy approach in West Asia, strengthening ties with Israel while maintaining support for Palestinian statehood and regional peace.
