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In a speech that felt more like a heartfelt conversation between old friends than a formal welcome, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu poured out his feelings as he welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel’s Knesset.
We at THOUSIF Inc. – INDIA could not stop smiling while reading the words; they were so warm and genuine.
If you like simple, straight-from-the-heart stories about global friendships, this one is for you.
Let us dive into what Netanyahu actually said and why it touched so many hearts.
“Deeply, Deeply Moved” – The Opening That Stole The Show
Netanyahu began by admitting something very human: heads of state visit the Knesset all the time, but this one was different.
“I must tell you, Narendra, my dear friend, I am deeply, deeply moved by your visit here today. I have never been more moved than by your visit with us.”
He even joked that he would not rank it (because that would get him in trouble diplomatically!), However, everyone in the hall knew exactly what he meant.
The entire Knesset burst into applause.
The building itself had been illuminated in the colours of the Indian flag, a lovely touch that set the perfect mood.
From Friend To “Brother” – The Personal Bond
Netanyahu did not stop at “dear friend.”
He went further:
“I would almost venture to say more than a friend, a brother.”
He recalled their very first meeting in 2017 when they took off their shoes and walked into the Mediterranean Sea together.
“We did not walk on water,” he laughed, “but we did perform miracles since then.”
Trade has doubled, cooperation has tripled, and understanding has quadrupled, all thanks to the friendship between the two leaders and the two nations.
Then came the famous “Modi hug” moment.
Netanyahu smiled and said:
“Prime Minister Modi’s personal embrace is something special; it is called the Modi hug. It is well known worldwide. It is not an act. It is a real thing.”
He promised to return that hug on behalf of every single member of the Knesset, because it perfectly shows the warmth between the Indian and Israeli people.
Standing Together In Tough Times
One of the most powerful parts was Netanyahu’s heartfelt thanks for India’s support after the October 7, 2023, attacks:
“You did not flinch. You did not waver. You did not give excuses. You stood next to Israel. You stood by Israel. You stood for Israel. You stood for the truth. Thank you, my friend.”
He repeated it with real emotion.
In a world where many voices stay silent or make excuses, India’s clear and firm stand meant everything to Israel.
Gratitude For History And Shared Values
Netanyahu also spoke beautifully about the deep roots of the relationship:
- For over 2,000 years, India has given Jews a safe home, never persecution, only welcome.
- Indian soldiers fought bravely in the First World War to help liberate the region, including the famous cavalry charge at Haifa. “We never forget that,” he said.
- In a time of rising antisemitism, India stands out as a civilisation where Jews were always treated with dignity.
He linked the two countries through hope itself: Israel’s national anthem, Hatikva (The Hope), and Modi’s poem, Asha (Hope).
He also noted the beautiful coincidence of Purim and Holi, both festivals celebrating light winning over darkness and the triumph of joy.
Why This Speech Feels So Special
Netanyahu called India a “gigantic power of almost one and a half billion people” and Israel “gigantic too, in spirit and deeds.”
Together, he said, they create an “enormous multiplier” of strength, innovation, and goodness.
Here are some of his most memorable lines, straight from the heart:
| Netanyahu’s Key Words | What It Really Means |
|---|---|
| “More than a friend, a brother” | Their bond goes beyond politics |
| “I am deeply, deeply moved… never been more moved” | Pure personal emotion |
| “The Modi hug… it’s a real thing” | Warmth between leaders and peoples |
| “You stood for the truth. Thank you, my friend” | Gratitude for India’s support |
| “We have performed miracles together” | Trade, tech and defence ties booming |
| “Partnership of hope” | Shared future built on ancient civilisations |
A Little Trivia To Make You Smile
During the speech, Netanyahu reminded everyone that he and Modi once waded into the sea using Israeli water technology.
Since that day, their countries have literally turned deserts greener, doubled trade, and built one of the strongest tech-defence partnerships in the world.
Some friendships really do create miracles!
What a beautiful reminder that true international friendships are built on trust, shared history, and real human warmth.
Netanyahu’s speech was not just diplomatic words; it was a genuine celebration of two ancient civilisations choosing to walk together into a brighter future.
If you enjoyed this simple, heartfelt breakdown of Netanyahu’s moving tribute, we have got plenty more easy-to-read stories here at THOUSIF Inc. – INDIA.
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