‘Nothing Can Justify Terrorism’: PM Modi Condoles With October 7 Attack Victims, Backs Israel

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed the Knesset, Israel's Parliament, delivering a strong message against terrorism while expressing solidarity with Israel following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. He conveyed condolences on behalf of Indians and stressed that New Delhi's position against terror remains firm and consistent.

"I also carry with me the deepest condolences of the people of India for every life lost and for every family whose world was shattered in the barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7. We feel your pain. We share your grief. India stands with Israel firmly, with conviction in this moment and beyond," he said.

Zero Tolerance Against Terrorism

The Prime Minister underlined that violence against civilians cannot be justified under any circumstances. He recalled India's own experience with terror attacks and emphasised that terrorism threatens societies across the world.

"No cause can justify the murder of civilians. Nothing can justify terrorism. India has also endured the pain of terrorism for a long time. We remember the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the innocent lives lost, including Israeli civilians," he continued.

PM Modi said India and Israel share a similar approach in dealing with terror threats. "Terrorism aims to destabilise societies, to block development and to erode trust. Countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere. That is why, India supports all efforts that contribute to peace and regional stability," he added.

Support For Peace Efforts In Gaza

While condemning terror, Modi also spoke about the need for dialogue and stability in the region. He voiced support for ongoing peace initiatives related to Gaza and stressed that long-term stability would require global cooperation.

"The road to peace is not always easy, but India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region," PM Modi said in the Knesset.

The October 7 assault by Hamas killed more than 1,200 people and resulted in over 250 hostages being taken. Israel responded with a large-scale military operation in Gaza, where more than 70,000 Palestinians were reported killed before a United States-mediated ceasefire took effect.

Warm Reception From Israeli Leadership

Modi received an enthusiastic welcome inside the Knesset. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described him as a close friend and praised the growing partnership between the two countries.

"I've never been more moved than by your visit here with us, a great friend of Israel, a great champion of the Indian-Israeli alliance, and a great leader on the world stage," Netanyahu told Modi.

Netanyahu added that the two countries would build an "iron alliance" in confronting extremism and thanked India for its support after the Hamas-led attack.

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana also highlighted Modi's earlier visit to Israel in 2017 and his prompt condemnation of the attack. "The friendship between our two nations has stood the test of our shared fight against terrorism. After the October 7 massacre, Prime Minister Modi was one of the first leaders to condemn the atrocities of Hamas and stood in brotherhood with the citizens of Israel," he said.

Visit Focused On Technology And Defence

The Prime Minister arrived in Israel earlier in the day for a two-day trip expected to emphasise cooperation in artificial intelligence and defence sectors. This marks his return to the country nine years after becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel in 2017.

He also held what he described as an "excellent" meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu, discussing a wide range of issues aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties.