New Delhi/Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken to Indian Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar, praising his courage during the September 30 mid-air cockpit attack and inviting him to participate in Israel’s Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony next year.
During the telephone conversation, Netanyahu described Machchhar as a “hero for Israel, India and the entire world” and told him: “I invite you to light a torch at Israel’s Independence Day ceremony.” Netanyahu said the torch-lighting is among the highest honours associated with Israel’s Independence Day and is normally reserved for Israeli citizens.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a conversation with the Indian pilot from the flight from Dubai, Captain Smit Machchhar:
“You are a hero for Israel, India, and the entire world. I invite Prime Minister @NarendraModi and you to light a flame on Israeli Independence Day.”… pic.twitter.com/e9nSJQ6TRj— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) October 3, 2026
Machchhar recounts dramatic cockpit attack
Machchhar, who is recovering in Abu Dhabi, also narrated the sequence of events aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30.
According to his account, the Omani co-pilot had asked to pray. Machchhar said that, out of respect, he did not look behind him. After several minutes, he suddenly felt a heavy blow to the back of his head. Initially, he thought the aircraft itself had suffered a serious problem, but after being struck repeatedly, he realised that he was being attacked by the co-pilot.
Despite suffering serious injuries and struggling with blurred vision, Machchhar attempted to open the cockpit door. His first attempt was unsuccessful, but he eventually managed to open it, allowing passengers to enter the cockpit and overpower the attacker.
“I had that one last fight left in me,” Machchhar told Netanyahu while describing his final effort to open the door.
Netanyahu praises his composure
Netanyahu expressed amazement at the Indian pilot’s composure under extreme circumstances and said his actions had prevented a major disaster. The Israeli prime minister had earlier publicly praised Machchhar for continuing to fight despite being seriously injured and helping passengers and crew regain control of the situation.
The incident has also drawn attention in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Machchhar on October 2 and praised his courage, patience and quick decision-making. The Prime Minister’s Office said Machchhar prioritised the safety of passengers despite suffering severe injuries.
Invitation carries a procedural caveat
While Netanyahu has extended the invitation, reports note that the Israeli prime minister does not independently have the authority to make the final selection of torch-lighters for the official Independence Day ceremony. The selection follows a government-established process involving an advisory committee and subsequent approval.
The proposed recognition nevertheless places the Indian pilot at the centre of Israel’s public acknowledgement of civilian courage following the Flydubai incident.
The September 30 attack remains under investigation. Israeli authorities have described the incident as an attempted terror attack, while details surrounding the attacker’s motives and background have been the subject of continuing investigation and official statements.
