Cultural gesture: Israeli PM Netanyahu wears Indian attire for dinner with PM Modi

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday surprised Prime Minister Narendra Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire ahead of their joint dinner, in a gesture that underscored the warmth in bilateral ties.

Sharing the moment on X, Netanyahu wrote, “Before our joint dinner, I surprised my friend Prime Minister Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire.” The gesture came during PM Modi’s official engagements in Jerusalem, where he also addressed a Special Plenary of the Knesset — becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to speak in the Israeli Parliament.

Ceremonial Welcome at the Knesset

Upon his arrival at the Knesset, PM Modi was received by Speaker Amir Ohana and accorded a ceremonial welcome. Ahead of his address, Prime Minister Netanyahu, Leader of the Opposition Yair Lapid and Speaker Ohana addressed the Plenary, expressing strong bipartisan support for strengthening India-Israel relations.

Beginning his speech, PM Modi thanked the Speaker for the special honour and expressed gratitude for being conferred the ‘Speaker of the Knesset’ medal. He dedicated the award to the enduring friendship and shared democratic traditions of India and Israel.

Emphasis on Strategic and Civilisational Ties

Highlighting the deep bonds between the two nations, PM Modi said India and Israel share ancient civilisational links along with a strong contemporary partnership built on technology, innovation, defence, security and strategic convergence. He noted that cooperation in agriculture, rural development, water management, sustainability and enterprise has strengthened vibrant people-to-people ties.

Referring to historical connections and two-way movement of people, he said the Indian community in Israel and the Jewish diaspora in India have significantly contributed to the progress of both countries. Reaffirming the shared zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, the Prime Minister offered condolences for the October 7 terror attack and stated that such brutality cannot be justified. He also reiterated India’s support for efforts aimed at ensuring durable peace and stability in the region.