New Delhi: The president, Droupadi Murmu, and the Israeli president, Isaac Herzog, have praised Indian Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during the mid-air cockpit attack on a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight. Their remarks came as Herzog announced that five Israeli passengers would be recommended for the president’s medal for civilian bravery for their actions during the emergency.
Murmu said the nation was proud of Machchhar and praised his courage and presence of mind after he was seriously injured during the incident. She said his determination to protect others and his quick response helped prevent a major tragedy and save many lives.
“I salute his indomitable spirit. I pray for his speedy recovery and good health,” Murmu said in a post on X. She also said Machchhar’s bravery had deeply touched people across the country.
Herzog also thanked Machchhar for his role in the emergency, saying the Indian pilot used his remaining strength to open the cockpit door despite being seriously injured which allowed passengers to enter the cockpit and help neutralize the attacker. He wished Machchhar a full recovery and strong health and said Israel extends its immense gratitude to him.
Herzog initially announced that four passengers – Yinon Hayon, Tzvika Mans, Asaf Reguan and Dr Shota Mosiashvili – would be recommended for the president’s medal for civilian bravery. In a subsequent update, he said Tali Niss would also be included, taking the number of Israeli passengers to five.
Herzog said Niss immediately recognized the danger, alerted passengers and called for help after hearing voices from the cockpit. He added that she later contacted the reserve pilots seated at the rear of the aircraft and asked them to come to the cockpit and assist in regaining control of the plane.
The Israeli president said Niss showed resourcefulness, responsibility and composure during the emergency. He said her actions played a significant role in protecting the passengers and described her as a heroine.
The medal recommendations will be placed before the advisory committee of the president’s medal for civilian bravery, headed by a retired judge. Herzog said the passengers and crew members worked together during the crisis and helped prevent a serious disaster.
The incident took place aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. RNA Media had earlier reported that Machchhar was seriously injured during the cockpit confrontation but managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and other crew members to intervene.
RNA Media had also reported the praise from the prime minister, Narendra Modi; Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu; the United States president, Donald Trump, and other leaders following the incident.