Netanyahu Calls Ottoman Rule an “Occupation” in Speech at Israeli Parliament
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the Ottoman Empire as an “occupying power” during a special Knesset session held for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, sparking debate over his historical remarks.
Speaking at a special session of the Knesset during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made controversial statements about the Ottoman period. Referring to World War I, Netanyahu characterized Ottoman rule as an “occupation,” drawing attention for his interpretation of historical events.
Netanyahu: “They Helped Liberate Us”
Netanyahu claimed that Indian soldiers who fought alongside British forces during World War I contributed to what he described as Israel’s liberation from Ottoman control. Despite the fact that the State of Israel did not exist at the time and the Jewish population in Palestine was limited, Netanyahu argued that Jewish fighters within the British army, along with Indian troops and commanders, played a role in ending Ottoman rule.
“We will not forget that Indian soldiers gave their lives for us,” Netanyahu said, framing the period as part of a broader struggle for freedom.
Strategic Alliance Emphasis
Highlighting India’s population of nearly 1.5 billion, Netanyahu described the country as a global power and referred to Israel as a “superpower” despite its small size. He emphasized plans to deepen strategic cooperation between the two nations.
In his remarks, Netanyahu also referenced biblical imagery, speaking of an alliance stretching “from India to Ethiopia,” signaling broader geopolitical ambitions.
