President Herzog Adds Woman to Civil Bravery Award List After Dubai Flight Attack

Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced on Tuesday that Tali Mans, who was aboard a dramatic Flydubai flight incident, will be recommended for the Presidential Medal of Bravery. This addition follows the initial announcement that four other men would receive the award for their actions during the event. Mans was on the flight from Dubai to Israel when the co-pilot, an Omani national, stabbed the pilot in an apparent attempt to crash the plane.

President Herzog spoke personally with Mans and stated he would recommend her to the advisory committee, headed by a retired judge, for the prestigious honor. Initially, the President's office had announced that the award would be given to Yaniv Hayun, Tzviqa Mans, Asaf Rejwan, and Dr. Shota Musayev, who broke into the cockpit to subdue the attacker. However, upon learning more about the incident, the President recognized Mans' critical role.

"I spoke with Tali Mans just now and heard about the resourcefulness, responsibility, and composure she displayed in the critical moments," Herzog shared. "Tali immediately identified the danger, alerted the passengers, and called for help. Even after the attacker was neutralized, she continued to act, calling for the pilots in the rear of the plane to come to the cockpit and assist in regaining control. Tali, you are a hero. I am proud of you and thank you on behalf of the State of Israel."

Hersog also extended a message to Captain Smit Machaiah, an Indian national, who reportedly opened the cockpit door with his last strength after being stabbed. "Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the bravery, determination, and actions that saved many lives. I wish you a full recovery. The State of Israel is immensely grateful to you," the President said. Herzog concluded by praising all those aboard, "Everyone who was there in those moments, passengers and 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!"

The incident was averted due to the passengers' quick thinking, starting with Mans' identification of the threat, followed by their entry into the cockpit and neutralization of the assailant, allowing the plane to land safely.