Israeli PM Netanyahu invites PM Modi and ‘heroic’ Indian pilot Smit Machchhar to light Israel Independence Day torch

An invitation to light a ceremonial torch is usually a moment of national pride. For Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, it could become a tribute to courage under extraordinary circumstances. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to join Machchhar in lighting a torch at Israel’s next Independence Day celebrations, following the pilot’s actions during an alleged attack aboard a flydubai flight.

Netanyahu extended the invitation to PM Modi during a telephone conversation on Thursday, October 22, as the two leaders also discussed India-Israel relations and developments in West Asia.

Why PM Netanyahu wants PM Modi and Captain Smit Machchhar at Israel’s Independence Day ceremony

In a post on X, PM Netanyahu said PM Modi had thanked him for the invitation and emphasised the two countries’ cooperation against terrorism. The Israeli leader described Machchhar as a heroic Indian pilot and highlighted the longstanding relationship between the countries.

PM Modi, meanwhile, said the leaders had reviewed the momentum in bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the partnership. They also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia, underscoring the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region.

The proposed torch-lighting ceremony carries particular significance because the honour is traditionally associated with Israeli citizens. However, The Times of Israel has noted that PM Netanyahu cannot unilaterally determine who will light the torches; the ceremony’s participants are selected through an established government process.

What happened aboard the Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flydubai flight?

The invitation follows a frightening incident on September 30, when Machchhar was seriously injured during an alleged attack by his Omani co-pilot aboard flydubai flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to a Reuters report published on October 18, Machchhar recounted being struck repeatedly with a crash axe inside the cockpit. He described trying to defend himself and reach the cockpit door as the aircraft began descending rapidly.

The plane eventually made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. All those aboard survived, and the injured pilot received medical treatment before being transferred to Abu Dhabi for further care.

Machchhar’s actions helped other crew members and people aboard the aircraft intervene. The co-pilot has faced allegations connected to the incident, which authorities have investigated as a serious security matter.

PM Netanyahu had already called Machchhar a hero

Thursday’s invitation followed an earlier conversation on October 3, when PM Netanyahu spoke directly with Machchhar and praised his composure during the attack. He invited both the pilot and Modi to attend the Independence Day ceremony, describing Machchhar as a hero of India, Israel and the wider world.

Netanyahu also wished the captain a full recovery and said Israeli citizens would welcome him despite the unusual nature of the honour.

Machchhar has since spoken publicly about the ordeal and expressed hope of returning to duty, according to an October 18 report by India’s public broadcaster, Akashvani News.

The latest invitation therefore links an individual act of courage with a broader diplomatic message. Whether the proposed ceremony goes ahead as described will depend on the formal selection process, but Netanyahu’s gesture has placed the Indian pilot’s actions at the centre of a symbolic moment in India-Israel relations.

(With inputs from ANI)