Jerusalem/New Delhi, February 25, 2026 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day visit to Israel on Wednesday (February 25–26), marking a significant chapter in India–Israel relations. In a historic first, he is set to address the Israeli Parliament — the Knesset — becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so.
The visit comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in West Asia, particularly amid escalating strains between the United States and Iran. Against this backdrop, Modi’s address to the Knesset carries diplomatic weight and strategic symbolism.
Why the Knesset Is in the Spotlight
The Indian Prime Minister’s address has triggered political debate within Israel itself. Controversy arose after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly did not invite Supreme Court President Yitzhak Amit to the official reception in Modi’s honor. Opposition parties have threatened to boycott the session, casting a shadow over what is otherwise considered a rare diplomatic honor.
Addressing the Knesset is regarded as a significant gesture of trust and political camaraderie between democratic nations. In a symbolic display of friendship, the Knesset building was illuminated in the colors of the Indian tricolor. Israeli Parliament Speaker Amir Ohana shared images of the illuminated structure on social media, describing the moment as historic.
What Is the Knesset?
The Knesset is Israel’s unicameral legislature — a single-chamber parliament responsible for lawmaking and oversight of the government. The term “Knesset” derives from the Hebrew phrase “Knesset HaGdola” (Great Assembly), a historic council of 120 sages, scholars, and prophets in Jewish tradition. Reflecting this legacy, the modern Knesset also consists of 120 members.
Unlike India’s bicameral parliamentary system — comprising the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha — Israel operates under a unicameral framework, where a single legislative body debates, votes, and enacts laws.
Powers and Authority
The Knesset wields extensive constitutional powers. It:
- Passes all national legislation
- Elects the President and approves the Prime Minister
- Forms and oversees the Cabinet
- Monitors government functioning
- Appoints the State Comptroller
- Can remove the President or government through a no-confidence vote
- Has the authority to dissolve itself and call for fresh elections
Members of the Knesset also enjoy parliamentary immunity during their tenure.
In contrast, India’s Prime Minister is the leader of the majority party in the directly elected Lok Sabha, while the President is elected indirectly by members of Parliament and state legislatures.
Location and Historical Background
The Knesset sits in the Givat Ram neighborhood of Jerusalem, within the government complex known as Kiryat HaMemshala. Jerusalem itself lies between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea, in the Judean Mountains.
The first Knesset convened on February 14, 1949, shortly after Israel declared independence on May 14, 1948, replacing the Provisional State Council.
Strategic Significance of the Visit
Prime Minister Modi’s current trip marks his second visit to Israel, following his landmark 2017 tour — the first-ever standalone visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country. It is also his first visit during his third term in office.
The February 25–26 visit signals renewed momentum in India–Israel ties, particularly in defense cooperation, advanced technology, innovation, agriculture, and trade. At a time of shifting geopolitical equations in West Asia, Modi’s address to the Knesset underscores the growing strategic convergence between the two democracies.
As the Indian tricolor glows on the façade of Israel’s Parliament, the symbolism is clear: the partnership between New Delhi and Jerusalem is entering a new and assertive phase on the global stage.
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