Israeli President Isaac Herzog has thanked Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during a mid-air attack on a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Herzog also announced plans to recommend 4 Israeli passengers for the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism after they helped overpower the attacker. The passengers, Yaniv Hayoun, Zvika Manes and Asaf Rajuan, entered the cockpit and restrained the co-pilot after he allegedly stabbed Machchhar. Dr Shota Musayev provided medical treatment to the injured captain. Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door despite his injuries. The aircraft later made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. (PC: X)

An old video of Flydubai’s Indian captain, Smit Machchhar, has gained attention following a violent confrontation in the cockpit of a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight. In the video, recorded about a year ago, Machchhar discusses the role of trained flight crew in protecting passengers. He asks, “Who’s gonna save you?” while highlighting the importance of having skilled professionals responsible for passenger safety during a flight. His remarks have gained fresh significance after he reportedly faced an attack by the co-pilot during Wednesday’s flight. The aircraft later made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, bringing renewed attention to the captain’s actions and aviation safety. (PC: X)

An old podcast video of Indian Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar has resurfaced after he was injured in a cockpit attack aboard a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight on September 30. In the 2025 conversation with Bona-Fide Banter, Machchhar explained why cabin crew training is vital during emergencies. He said, “When we are up there and if something happens, you know, who’s gonna save you? You’ll be lucky enough to have a doctor on board, but if not, then they are trained. I’m not saying they are trained to do surgeries and stuff, but then they can save your life.” (PC: India Today)

A Naga student group in Manipur has warned that residents may seek help from neighbouring countries, including China, if the Centre and state government fail to protect them. Tangkhul Aze Katamnao Long (TAKL), also known as the Southern Tangkhul Students’ Union, raised concerns over recent killings of Naga civilians in Tamenglong, Senapati and Kamjong districts. Its president, Yarchuiso Kashung, said residents felt neglected by both governments. The group called for urgent action to ensure public safety and accountability. Kashung also urged the Manipur chief minister to resign if he could not protect the state and its people. (PC: X)

The Flydubai mid-air incident has drawn attention to wider security concerns in the Middle East, including the Iran war and diplomatic contacts between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed (MBZ). The incident involved an alleged attempt to hijack or bring down a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight, where Indian captain Smit Machchhar reportedly faced an attack by the co-pilot. The aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The incident has raised questions about aviation safety amid regional tensions. However, any connection between the flight incident, the Iran war and the leaders’ discussions remains subject to verification as investigations continue. (PC: HT)

Israeli passenger Yaniv Hayun helped intervene during an alleged cockpit attack on a Dubai-Tel Aviv Flydubai flight, telling injured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, “You’re not going to die today.” In an interview with India Today, Hayun said he and a crew member forced open the cockpit door after finding it unlocked. He saw Machchhar lying injured on the floor while the Omani co-pilot was at the controls. Hayun said he grabbed the co-pilot from behind and pulled him away. The incident occurred aboard Flight FZ1073 on Wednesday, with 174 people on board. The aircraft later landed safely in Saudi Arabia. (PC: India Today)

India stormed into the men's cricket final at the Asian Games 2026 after defeating Sri Lanka by 124 runs in the semi-final on Thursday. Batting first, India posted 169/7, led by Ishan Kishan's unbeaten 80 off 46 balls. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also contributed 38 runs off 21 deliveries. India's bowlers then dismantled Sri Lanka's batting line-up, dismissing the team for just 45 in 9.5 overs. Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel took two wickets each. India will now face Pakistan in Saturday's gold medal match. The Indian men's team will aim to secure gold after the women's team defended their title last month. (PC: NDTV)

Flydubai flight carrying 174 people plunged 14,125 feet in 29 seconds after an alleged stabbing incident in the cockpit on Wednesday. The Boeing 737, operating Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said one pilot allegedly stabbed the other and appeared to attempt to crash the aircraft. Flydubai confirmed an altercation on the flight deck but did not verify these claims. Flight-tracking data recorded the sharp descent. Passengers reportedly panicked as the aircraft lost altitude. The incident is under investigation, and several details remain unconfirmed. (PC:  The Indian Express)

US President Donald Trump has said the war with Iran could end “very soon”, but warned that Washington faces a choice between launching further strikes and reaching a deal. “We blow them up or make a deal,” Trump told reporters at the White House on Wednesday. He said 18 Americans had been killed in the conflict, adding that “losing one is too many”. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed American forces had destroyed Iran’s navy, air force and defence systems. Meanwhile, reports said Secretary of State Marco Rubio had ordered Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s delegation to leave New York after negotiations stalled. (PC: Mint)

India added to their medal tally at the Asian Games 2026 on October 1, with Manu Francis and Prince Noble Kurisinkal winning silver in the men’s skiff sailing event. Indian archer Ganesh Maniratnam Thirumuru also secured bronze in the men’s compound individual event. He finished strongly, hitting three consecutive 10s to seal his medal. The result marked a significant achievement for Ganesh, who was making his debut at a major multi-sport event. India finished the compound archery competition with three gold medals and one bronze, falling short of their five-gold sweep at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games. (PC: India Today)