Indian Airline Captain Hailed as National Hero for Foiling Hijacking Attempt

The Indian captain of a Fly Dubai flight, identified as Smit Machchhar, has been lauded as a national hero in his home country following his courageous actions during a hijacking attempt. Reports indicate that Machchhar struggled with his co-pilot and managed to open the cockpit door to passengers who then subdued the assailant. This incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has garnered significant attention in India, with numerous Indian cricketers and Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly praising Machchhar's bravery. "All of India is proud of him," stated one cricketer, highlighting that his actions likely saved the lives of 180 people.

Machchhar is reportedly injured and receiving medical attention in Saudi Arabia. Many Israelis have also expressed their gratitude towards the captain, with social media posts urging others to remember his name and thank him personally. CNN featured an interview with the CEO of SpiceJet, the Indian airline where Machchhar previously worked, who expressed immense pride in his former employee, echoing the sentiment that the entire company is proud of him. The CNN report itself referred to him as a "national hero - Indian pride."

The article also briefly mentions two other unrelated international news items: dozens of Iranian oil tankers are reportedly stuck in the Indian Ocean due to increased US sanctions, preventing them from offloading their cargo or receiving supplies. Additionally, a controversy has erupted in France surrounding Jordan Bardella, the young leader of the National Rally party, who is accused of making antisemitic remarks in his youth. Bardella has denied the allegations and filed a defamation lawsuit.