Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:17pm on 22 Oct 2026,Thursday India Global
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar to participate in Israel’s Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony next year. The invitation follows Machchhar’s courageous actions during an alleged cockpit attack aboard a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight on September 30, 2026. Despite suffering serious injuries, the Indian pilot managed to open the cockpit door, allowing others to intervene. Netanyahu praised his bravery and described him as a hero of India, Israel and the world. The proposed participation highlights India-Israel friendship, though the ceremony’s formal selection process remains applicable. (PC: X)
