PM Modi becomes first leader to receive 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal' for boosting India-Israel ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Wednesday honoured with the prestigious 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal' for his exceptional contribution to strengthening strategic relations between India and Israel. The Indian Prime Minister became the first global figure to receive this highest honour of the Knesset. The award was presented by Speaker Amir Ohana after the Prime Minister's address at the Israeli Parliament. "I am deeply honoured to receive the Medal of the Knesset. I accept it with humility and gratitude. This honour is not a tribute to an individual, but to the enduring friendship between India and Israel. It reflects the shared values that guide our two nations," PM Modi wrote on X. 

The medal recognised the Prime Minister's personal commitment to expanding strategic engagement between India and Israel.



Over recent years, cooperation between New Delhi and Tel Aviv has expanded into a full-spectrum partnership that includes high-level visits, defence collaboration, technology exchange and joint development projects. The honour also reflects Israel's acknowledgement of India as a long-term and reliable partner in areas such as security cooperation, economic growth and technological innovation.

Prime Minister Modi is among the rare world leaders to have received top civilian honours from both Israel and the State of Palestine, showcasing India's balanced and independent West Asia policy. In 2018, he was awarded the 'Grand Collar of the State of Palestine' -- the highest honour the Palestinian government confers on foreign leaders for strengthening India-Palestine ties and supporting the Palestinian cause.