Survivor Criticizes President's Award for Plane Hijacking Foiled

President Isaac Herzog announced his intention to recommend the "President's Award for Civil Heroism" for four Israeli passengers who thwarted a hijacking attempt on a Flydubai flight. The passengers, Yaniv Hayun, Tzvi Mance, Assaf Rejwan, and Dr. Shota Musayev, are being recognized for their bravery in the incident.

However, Rom Braslavski, a hostage survivor, sharply criticized the president's decision. In a post on his X account, Braslavski argued that the official recognition should instead be directed towards wounded IDF soldiers. He stated, "The President's Award should go to Yossi Sardi, Omer Amsalem, and Itzik Saidyan. Our heroic soldiers who were severely injured in Israel's difficult battles became disabled, and continued to fight while the state abandons disabled IDF veterans."

Braslavski accused President Herzog of seeking publicity stunts, citing an instance where Herzog hosted Erez Iscov at the President's Residence. "Yitzhak Herzog is looking for gimmicks, like when he brought Erez Iscov to the President's Residence, maybe he would give him a President's Award too?" Braslavski questioned.

President Herzog had spoken personally with the four passengers, praising their resourcefulness. He informed them of his intention to recommend them for the award, which will be forwarded to an advisory committee headed by a retired judge. The President expressed his gratitude, stating, "Everyone who was there in those moments, the passengers and the crew, mobilized, acted bravely, supported each other with mutual responsibility, and helped prevent a heavy disaster. I am proud of you. The people of Israel are proud of you... These are the beautiful and brave faces of Israeli society!"