Tel Aviv, Feb 25 (NationPress) Emphasizing that India has faced the agony of terrorism for an extended period, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Wednesday that the nation stands resolutely with Israel in the battle against this global scourge.

"I carry the heartfelt condolences of the people of India for every life lost and for every family whose world was devastated in the brutal terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7. We feel your anguish. We share your sorrow. India is unwaveringly with Israel during this time and beyond. No cause can legitimize the killing of innocent civilians. There is no justification for terrorism. India knows the suffering caused by terrorism all too well," PM Modi remarked

during his historic address to the Israeli Parliament, Knesset - marking the first time an Indian PM has spoken there.

His monumental speech, which garnered significant applause from Israeli lawmakers multiple times, highlighted that the Gaza Peace Initiative, backed by the UN Security Council, presents a viable path forward.

"It is crucial to maintain hope. The Gaza Peace Initiative, endorsed by the UN Security Council, offers a path forward. India stands firmly behind this initiative, believing it contains the potential for a fair and lasting peace for all people in the region, addressing the Palestine issue as well. May our endeavors be guided by wisdom, courage, and humanity," he stated.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his joy at being back in Israel, a land to which he feels a strong connection.

"I bring the greetings of 1.4 billion Indians, along with a message of friendship, respect, and collaboration," PM Modi noted, highlighting that he shares his birthday with India's formal recognition of Israel on September 17, 1950.

In his address at the Knesset, PM Modi characterized the Holocaust as one of humanity’s darkest periods.

"Yet, even amidst those dark times, there were acts of humanity that stood out... The Maharaja of Nawanagar in Gujarat, known as the Jam Saheb, provided refuge to Polish children, including Jewish children, who had nowhere else to turn," he pointed out.

During his address at the special plenary session of the Israeli Parliament, PM Modi also acknowledged that Jewish communities have coexisted in India without fear of persecution or discrimination.

"They have maintained their faith and fully participated in society," he stated.

Earlier, the Knesset welcomed PM Modi enthusiastically, with members standing and applauding, the hall echoing with chants of "Modi, Modi".

"Mr. Prime Minister, welcome to Jerusalem, welcome to the Knesset," Speaker Amir Ohana said in Hindi while greeting PM Modi at the Israeli Parliament.

He also referred to PM Modi as the "defining statesman of our era".