Prime Minister Narendra Modi has joined a rare group of global leaders to receive top state honours from both Israel and Palestine — the Speaker of the Knesset Medal and the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine — underscoring India’s balanced diplomatic engagement in West Asia.

Honour from Israel

During his state visit to Israel, PM Modi:

Became the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset
Received the Speaker of the Knesset Medal — the highest honour of the Israeli Parliament
Received a standing ovation from lawmakers

The award recognized his personal leadership in strengthening India–Israel ties.

In his address, Modi:

Highlighted ancient civilisational links
Condemned the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas
Reaffirmed India’s “zero tolerance” policy toward terrorism
Expressed support for durable peace efforts in Gaza

Honour from Palestine

In 2018, PM Modi was conferred the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine — the highest Palestinian civilian honour for foreign dignitaries.

The award was presented by Mahmoud Abbas during Modi’s historic first visit to Palestine — the first-ever by an Indian Prime Minister.

The Grand Collar is typically awarded to:

Kings
Heads of State
Heads of Government

Modi described the honour as a matter of pride for India and a reflection of India–Palestine friendship.

Diplomatic Significance

Receiving top honours from both Israel and Palestine highlights:

India’s multi-aligned foreign policy
Strategic partnerships with Israel
Continued support for Palestinian statehood and regional stability
India’s attempt to maintain balance in West Asia diplomacy

Key Entities

Narendra Modi – Indian Prime Minister honoured by both nations
Knesset – Conferred Israel’s highest parliamentary honour
Speaker of the Knesset Medal – Highest honour of the Israeli Parliament
Grand Collar of the State of Palestine – Highest Palestinian honour for foreign leaders
Mahmoud Abbas – Palestinian President who conferred the Grand Collar

Final Verdict

PM Modi’s receipt of top honours from both Israel and Palestine positions India as a rare diplomatic bridge in a deeply polarised region. The recognition reflects India’s strategic engagement with Israel alongside continued political support for Palestine — reinforcing New Delhi’s balancing approach in West Asian geopolitics.