Israel Hails Israelis, Emiratis and Indians for ‘Extraordinary Courage’ During Flydubai Attack

Israel’s Foreign Ministry has praised Israelis, Emiratis and Indians for displaying “extraordinary courage” during the attack on a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv, saying the incident demonstrated solidarity against terrorism.

In a post on X, the Ministry said the attack was not only directed at Israelis but also challenged Israel-UAE ties and the broader principles associated with the Abraham Accords.

“The world saw Israelis, Emiratis and Indians showing extraordinary courage and standing together against terror,” the Ministry said, adding that terrorism would not derail the regional changes taking place.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has separately announced a special honour for Flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who has been credited with helping thwart the mid-air attack.

During a telephone conversation with Machchhar, Netanyahu invited the Indian pilot and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light a ceremonial flame at Israel’s next Independence Day ceremony.

“Captain, I want to invite you and my dear friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to light a celebratory flame on our next Independence Day,” Netanyahu said, describing Machchhar as a hero of India, Israel and the wider world.

Netanyahu also wished the pilot a “very speedy and complete recovery” and said the honour was generally reserved for Israeli citizens.

He told Machchhar that the recognition represented Israel’s highest Independence Day honour and said Israelis would embrace him for his actions.

After hearing the pilot recount how the attack unfolded inside the cockpit, Netanyahu said he was struck by Machchhar’s composure and courage under extremely difficult circumstances.

The Israeli Prime Minister said the pilot had not merely protected the passengers’ lives but had also demonstrated how courage could prevail against terrorism.

“You saved so many souls. I think you saved something bigger,” Netanyahu said, praising what he described as Machchhar’s remarkable conduct.