“Truly Splendid!”: PM Narendra Modi Praises Benjamin Netanyahu for Wearing Traditional Indian Attire in Israel
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Tel Aviv, February 26, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for wearing traditional Indian attire ahead of a joint dinner hosted during Modi’s ongoing state visit to Israel, highlighting the strong cultural bond between the two nations.
The gesture drew warm appreciation from PM Modi, who described Netanyahu’s appearance as a symbol of respect for India’s cultural heritage.
Netanyahu Surprises PM Modi with Indian Outfit
Sharing the moment on social media platform X, Benjamin Netanyahu revealed that he surprised PM Modi by wearing traditional Indian clothing before their official dinner meeting.
In his post, Netanyahu wrote that he chose the attire as a friendly gesture toward the Indian Prime Minister during the diplomatic engagement.
हमारे संयुक्त रात्रिभोज से पहले, मैंने अपने मित्र प्रधानमंत्री मोदी को पारंपरिक भारतीय परिधान पहनकर चौंका दिया। 🇮🇱🇮🇳@narendramodi pic.twitter.com/3ElIQeLY97
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) February 25, 2026
PM Modi Responds with Appreciation
Responding to Netanyahu’s post, PM Narendra Modi called the gesture “truly splendid.” He stated that Netanyahu’s admiration for Indian attire reflects respect for India’s rich traditions and cultural values.
The exchange quickly gained attention online, with users praising the cultural diplomacy displayed during the visit.
बहुत ही शानदार!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2026
भारतीय परिधान के प्रति आपका ये लगाव हमारे देश की समृद्ध संस्कृति और परंपराओं के प्रति आपके सम्मान को दर्शाता है। @netanyahu https://t.co/YxbNVqwyTi
PM Modi Receives Prestigious Medal of the Knesset
Earlier during the visit, PM Modi received the Medal of the Knesset, becoming the first global leader to receive Israel’s highest parliamentary honour.
The award recognised Modi’s personal leadership and contribution toward strengthening strategic relations between India and Israel. The honour was presented by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana after Modi addressed a special plenary session of the Israeli Parliament.
PM Modi dedicated the medal to the enduring friendship and shared democratic traditions between both nations.
Strengthening India–Israel Strategic Partnership
During his address at the Knesset, PM Modi highlighted the deep historical ties between India and Israel, noting connections dating back over two thousand years.
He emphasised growing cooperation in defence, trade, innovation, and infrastructure development. Modi also expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which aims to unlock new opportunities in bilateral trade.
Calling Israel a global innovation powerhouse, PM Modi said collaboration between the two countries creates a strong foundation for future partnerships.
Standing Ovation at Israeli Parliament
Following his speech, members of the Israeli Parliament interacted with PM Modi and applauded his address with a standing ovation. Lawmakers also took photographs and selfies with the Indian Prime Minister, marking a significant diplomatic moment during the visit.
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