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Netanyahu Hails Smit Machchhar as Hero, Invites Him & PM Modi to Israel Independence Day
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News18•04-10-2026, 07:43
Netanyahu Hails Smit Machchhar as Hero, Invites Him & PM Modi to Israel Independence Day
- •Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu praised Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during the cockpit attack on Flydubai Flight FZ1073.
- •Netanyahu called Machchhar "a hero for Israel, India and the entire world."
- •Machchhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have been invited to light a ceremonial flame at Israel's Independence Day ceremony next year, one of Israel's highest honors.
- •Machchhar provided Netanyahu with a detailed account of the attack, including his efforts to open the cockpit door while injured.
- •Captain Machchhar is currently recovering in Abu Dhabi and is reported to be in good health, while the UAE-led investigation continues.
Key Questions Answered
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Captain Smit Machchhar for his incredible courage during a cockpit attack on Flight FZ1073, where he made a final effort to open the cockpit door despite severe injuries.
Netanyahu invited Captain Machchhar and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light a ceremonial flame at Israel’s upcoming Independence Day ceremony next year, which is considered one of the country's highest honors.
Captain Smit Machchhar is currently recovering in Abu Dhabi, and the Indian Embassy has confirmed that he is in good health and recovering well.
