Netanyahu Honors Flydubai Hijacking Foiled Heroes, Invites Them to Light Independence Day Torch

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with four individuals on Thursday who played a crucial role in thwarting the attempted hijacking of a flydubai flight from Dubai. Netanyahu recognized Yaniv Hayoun, Or Fradilov, Dr. Shota Musayev, and his wife Sigalit for their "civilian heroism" and invited them to light a torch at the upcoming Independence Day ceremony. During the meeting, Netanyahu urged Israeli citizens to remain vigilant, stating, "Our enemies intend to strike us," during this "very sensitive period."

The four recounted their struggle against the co-pilot, who had stabbed the captain, and their actions to secure the aircraft. They described how they managed to restrain the assailant using headphone wires, noting his statement, "Kill me," which they interpreted as an admission of mission failure. The Prime Minister lauded their "exceptional heroism," composure, and resolve, emphasizing that their actions likely prevented a major catastrophe and saved numerous lives.

Earlier that day, Netanyahu had also publicly commended Yaniv Hayoun, a plumber, for forcing open the cockpit door during the incident. Meanwhile, the injured Indian captain, Smit Machchhar, was transferred to Dubai for continued medical treatment and is reportedly recovering well, according to the Indian Embassy in the UAE.

As repatriation flights from Dubai are set to begin on Friday, many Israelis remain stranded. Shin Bet security agents are being dispatched to Dubai to prepare for these flights. Concurrently, the UAE's Attorney General has ordered an investigation into the hijacking attempt.