Israeli President to Award Presidential Medal to Flight Heroes

President Isaac Herzog announced Thursday his intention to recommend four Israelis for the Presidential Medal of Distinction for Civil Heroism, following their courageous actions on a flight from Dubai to Israel. The incident occurred when one pilot attacked another, causing the aircraft to lose altitude. The four Israelis, Tali Mans, Yaniv Hayun, Assaf Rajuan, and Dr. Shota Musaev, along with the flight's Indian captain, Smit Machhar, acted swiftly to neutralize the attacker and stabilize the plane. Mans alerted to the anomaly, while Hayun, Mans, and Rajuan entered the cockpit to subdue the assailant, with Hayun managing to control the aircraft. Rajuan stated they ensured no passage between the cockpit and passengers, while Dr. Musaev provided critical medical aid to the injured pilot, stabilizing him until an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. President Herzog praised their initiative, bravery, and mutual responsibility in extreme danger, emphasizing their self-sacrifice to save others and prevent a major disaster. He noted their actions showcased the "beautiful and brave face of Israeli society." The President also extended his gratitude to Captain Machhar for his decisive actions. Dr. Musaev described the event as a near-disaster, highlighting the collective heroism of all passengers and crew. The Presidential Medal of Distinction for Civil Heroism was established by President Herzog during the current war to honor civilians who demonstrate exceptional bravery and self-risk to save lives, with cases reviewed by an advisory committee.