Netanyahu invites PM Modi to Israel’s Independence Day celebrations

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in Israel’s Independence Day celebrations. During a telephone conversation, Netanyahu invited Modi to join Captain Smit Machchhar, a heroic Indian pilot, to light a ceremonial torch during the festivities.

Captain Machchhar gained international recognition for his bravery on September 30, when he thwarted an alleged hijacking attempt on Flydubai flight FZ1073. While traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv with 174 passengers, Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot in the cockpit. Despite sustaining serious injuries, he managed to open the cockpit door, allowing the crew and passengers to overpower the attacker and ensure the aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.

In addition to the invitation, the two leaders discussed the sustained momentum of the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership and recent developments in West Asia. Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability in the region, reaffirming their shared commitment to combating terrorism both on the ground and in the air.