Netanyahu Invites PM Modi to Honour Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar in Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honour Captain Smit Machchhar at Israel’s 2027 Independence Day ceremony at Mount Herzl, recognising the Indian pilot’s reported bravery during an onboard attack.

According to the account provided, Netanyahu called Modi and invited him to light the ceremonial torch alongside Captain Machchhar at the national event, which celebrates Israel’s Independence Day.

मैंने अपने मित्र, भारत के प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी से बात की और उन्हें इज़राइल के स्वतंत्रता दिवस पर वीर भारतीय पायलट के साथ मशाल प्रज्वलित करने के लिए आमंत्रित किया। मोदी ने निमंत्रण के लिए मुझे धन्यवाद दिया और कहा कि ज़मीन पर और हवा में, भारत और इज़राइल आतंकवाद के ख़िलाफ़ मिलकर लड़ रहे हैं। उन्होंने हमारे बीच के मज़बूत और वर्षों पुराने संबंधों की भी सराहना की। 🇮🇱🇮🇳

— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 22, 2026

Captain Machchhar is being recognised for his courage during an incident on September 30, 2026, aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073. The account states that the injured Indian pilot opened the cockpit door, enabling passengers to subdue an Omani co-pilot who allegedly attacked him with an axe.

Received a phone call from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. We reviewed the sustained momentum in our bilateral ties and reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthening our partnership. We also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia and underscored the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region. @netanyahu

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 22, 2026

Netanyahu reportedly described Machchhar as a hero for Israel, India and the world, highlighting the significance of his actions and the recognition of his bravery at a major Israeli national ceremony.

During their conversation, Modi and Netanyahu also discussed the strong bilateral ties between India and Israel, their shared commitment to combating terrorism, and the prevailing tensions in West Asia. Both leaders emphasised the importance of regional peace and stability.

The proposed honour would provide a prominent platform to recognise an Indian pilot’s reported courage while highlighting the growing strategic relationship between India and Israel.