“We Remember Israeli Lives Lost In 26/11”: PM Modi Recalls Mumbai Attacks In Knesset Speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed the Knesset, Israel's parliament, where the central theme of his speech revolved around terrorism and the shared pain endured by India and Israel.

His remarks placed strong emphasis on the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, remembering the victims, including Israeli citizens, and reinforcing a joint commitment to counter-terrorism.

26/11 Memory Connects India And Israel

Recalling India's long battle against terrorism, Modi said, "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 citizens. Like you, we have a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism, with no double standards."

He connected this memory with Israel's recent tragedy, stating, "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 terror attack by Hamas on October 7. We feel your pain; we share your grief. India stands firmly with Israel and with full conviction in this moment and beyond."

The Prime Minister stressed that both nations have witnessed attacks targeting civilians and democratic institutions, creating a shared understanding of the threat posed by extremism.

Shared Fight Against Terror

During his address, Modi reiterated India's uncompromising stand against terrorism and underscored the importance of sustained global efforts to counter it. Referring to peace initiatives in the region, he noted, "Some years ago, when you concluded the Abraham Accords, we applauded your courage and vision. It was a moment of new hope for a long-troubled region. Since then, the situation has changed significantly. The path is even more challenging. Yet it is important to sustain that hope."

The reference reinforced India's view that dialogue and regional cooperation must continue despite setbacks caused by violence.

A Relationship Strengthened By Tragedy And Trust

Modi also reflected on the evolving ties between India and Israel, shaped in part by shared security concerns. He said, "My own first visit to Israel was in 2006, as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Later, in 2017, during my visit to Israel as Prime Minister, our two countries elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership. Since then, our engagement has expanded in scale and scope. And we are committed to further consolidating this relationship across many sectors."

Highlighting India's historic record of harmony, he added, "Jewish communities have lived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination. They have preserved their faith and participated fully in society. That record is a source of pride for us."

Beyond Security: Innovation And Shared Values

The Prime Minister pointed out that the partnership extends beyond defence and security. On innovation, he said, "Israel is often called the "start-up nation". In recent years, we have also been working to unlock the innovation and creativity of our youth. I recall that in 2018, Prime Minister Netanyahu and I inaugurated the iCreate Technology Business Incubator in India. Since then, it has supported nearly 900 such start-ups."

He also acknowledged the contribution of Indian nationals in Israel, saying, "I am aware that Indian caregivers and skilled workers in Israel contribute immensely to families and communities. They have displayed remarkable courage and dedication in times of crisis, including on October 7. We are proud of them."

Concluding with a civilisational perspective, Modi remarked, "We are both ancient civilizations. And it is perhaps no surprise that our civilisational traditions also reveal philosophical parallels. In Israel, the principle of Tikkun Olam speaks of healing the world. In India, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam affirms that the world is one family. Both ideas extend responsibility beyond immediate boundaries. They ask societies to act with compassion and moral courage."

Through his address, the Prime Minister framed the memory of 26/11 as a lasting bond between India and Israel, reinforcing a united stand against terrorism and a shared resolve to protect democratic values.