Netanyahu Calls Flydubai Pilot a Hero, Invites Him to Light Independence Day Torch

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a video call with the Indian pilot of a Flydubai flight, Captain Smith, expressing deep gratitude for his courage. Netanyahu officially invited the pilot, along with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to light a torch during Israel's upcoming Independence Day celebrations, calling Captain Smith a hero to Israel, India, and the entire world.

During the conversation, the pilot recounted the terrifying moments he experienced in the cockpit. He explained that the attack began suddenly after his co-pilot requested to pray. While the captain was looking forward out of respect for his co-pilot's privacy, he was struck forcefully on the back of the head. The pilot realized the attack was deliberate when he experienced severe, rapid dives of the aircraft and continued blows to his head, which caused partial vision loss.

Despite losing vision and feeling dizzy, the pilot fought back against his attacker, managing to reach and open the cockpit door. People outside then rushed in and subdued the co-pilot, thwarting the attack. Netanyahu expressed admiration for the captain's composure and decisive actions under impossible circumstances, stating the pilot saved not only the passengers' lives but "the spirit of the world" by proving that the brave can overcome evil.

Netanyahu conveyed his regards to the pilot's family, assuring them they would receive a warm welcome and be hosted with open arms in Israel during a future historic visit.