Modi Receives Warm Welcome in Israel as Netanyahu Highlights Symbolic Attire During Diplomatic Visit
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu upon his arrival in Tel Aviv for a high-profile diplomatic visit, with a light-hearted exchange over traditional attire drawing attention both at the airport and on social media.
Netanyahu personally received Modi at the airport, where the two leaders exchanged friendly greetings. Modi was dressed in a traditional white kurta and pyjama paired with a sleeveless jacket and a saffron pocket square. Netanyahu pointed out that the pocket square matched the orange outfit worn by his wife, jokingly drawing attention to the coordinated colours.
“You see what she wore?” Netanyahu said, gesturing toward his wife’s attire and Modi’s pocket square. Modi responded with a smile, acknowledging the similarity by saying, “Yes, saffron,” prompting laughter among those present.
Sara Netanyahu also expressed her admiration for India during the interaction, describing it as a “wonderful country,” while Netanyahu praised Modi, calling him a “wonderful leader.”
Netanyahu Wears Traditional Indian Attire at Official Dinner
In a symbolic gesture highlighting the close ties between the two countries, Netanyahu later surprised Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire during a joint dinner. Sharing the moment on social media, Netanyahu said he wore the outfit to honour his visiting counterpart.
The gesture, along with the leaders’ friendly exchange, quickly gained traction online, with social media users praising the camaraderie and describing it as a reflection of the strong diplomatic relationship between India and Israel.
Modi Addresses Israeli Parliament, Reaffirms Support
During his visit, Modi addressed Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, becoming the first Indian prime minister to do so. In his speech, he reaffirmed India’s support for Israel in its fight against terrorism and emphasised the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The visit underscored the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, with both leaders highlighting shared interests in security, technology, and diplomatic collaboration.