Israeli PM Netanyahu Praises Indian Pilot Captain Machhar as Global Hero

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke via video call with Captain Smit Machhar, the Indian pilot of a Dubai-bound flight, on Saturday evening, according to reports. During the conversation, Netanyahu described Machhar as a hero not only for India but for Israel and the entire world, acknowledging his actions during a critical incident in the cockpit. The Israeli leader extended an invitation to the Indian aviator to participate in Israel's Independence Day ceremony by lighting a ceremonial torch, marking an unusual diplomatic gesture of recognition. The call reflected Netanyahu's personal interest in acknowledging the pilot's quick thinking and response during the undisclosed cockpit incident. The exchange highlighted the growing people-to-people connections between India and Israel, transcending official diplomatic channels. Details regarding the specific incident that prompted Netanyahu's recognition were not immediately disclosed in available reports.