In what is described as the “the biggest pro-Israel, anti-terrorist rally” in India recently, a reported 20,000 people marched in favor of Israel yesterday in Kolkata (Calcutta), in the Indian state of West Bengal.

Protesters holding pro-Israel banners marched through the streets of Kolkata, while community heads delivered speeches proclaiming Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas.

“The destiny of both India and Israel as thriving democracies are intertwined. We both share the same values,” said rally organizer Tapan Ghosh.

Ghosh was quoted saying that “India and Israel, ‘surrounded by very tough neighbors,’ are united in peace.” Sikhs and Buddhists, including some from neighboring Bangladesh, joined the largely Hindu crowd.

Lately ties between Israel and India have been improving. In recent years Israel’s trade with India has increased substantially, and is now worth $6 billion. The election of Narendra Modi as Prime Minister of India in May of this year bodes well for the further improvement of bilateral ties.

[Photo: patel136 / YouTube ]