Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid homage to Major Thakur Dalpat Singh Shekhawat while addressing lawmakers in the Knesset, Israel’s parliament. Remembering the Indian soldiers who fought in the First World War, he said India’s connection with the region was “written in blood and sacrifice".

“During the First World War, more than 4,000 Indian soldiers laid down their lives in this region," PM Modi told Israeli lawmakers.

The Prime Minister recalled the historic cavalry charge at Haifa in September 1918 and called Major Dalpat Singh as the “Hero of Haifa", whose bravery symbolises the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers.

#WATCH| Jerusalem, Israel: Addressing the Israeli Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “…India’s connection to this land is also written in blood and sacrifice. During the First World War, more than 4,000 Indian soldiers laid down their lives in this region…"…pic.twitter.com/TQSiB7MsCK— ANI (@ANI)February 25, 2026

The Prime Minister’s remarks in the Knesset once again brought attention to the role played by Major Thakur Dalpat Singh and his troops in the liberation of Haifa.

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Major Thakur Dalpat Singh Shekhawat (1892–1918) was an officer of the British Indian Army from Jodhpur. He commanded the Jodhpur Lancers and led a daring cavalry charge during the Battle of Haifa on September 23, 1918.

The 15th Imperial Service Cavalry Brigade, which included troops from Jodhpur, Hyderabad and Mysore, attacked the fortified city of Haifa, then under Ottoman control. Armed mainly with swords and lances, the Indian horsemen carried out a bold assault against heavy artillery and machine guns.

Despite losing eight soldiers and suffering injuries to 34 others, the Jodhpur Lancers captured more than 700 prisoners, 17 field guns and 11 machine guns. Major Singh was killed in action during the battle and was later awarded the Military Cross for gallantry.

The victory at Haifa is regarded as one of the last great cavalry charges in military history. It also marked the end of Ottoman rule in the city. Around 900 Indian soldiers are buried in war cemeteries in Haifa, Jerusalem and Ramle.

Source: World News in news18.com, World Latest News, World News