Israeli President Honors Passengers Who Foiled Flydubai Hijacking

President Yitzhak Herzog presented the "President's Award for Civil Heroism" to six passengers from a Flydubai flight who acted to neutralize a hijacker. The honorees included Or Perdilov, Yaniv Hayun, Dr. Shota Musayev, Tali Mans, Zvika Mans, and Assaf Rejwan. Herzog praised their actions, stating they prevented a major aviation disaster that could have altered the course of the region. He also called for a full investigation into the incident and the circumstances that led to it, emphasizing that their bravery should not overshadow the need for clear answers.

During a prior conversation, the President had expressed his admiration for the passengers' resourcefulness, courage, and mutual responsibility displayed during the extreme danger. He noted that their swift, decisive actions saved many lives. Herzog also acknowledged the Indian pilot, Sumit Mochar, whose determination facilitated the neutralization of the threat.

Dr. Shota Musayev described the event as "very difficult" and a near miss, emphasizing that the heroism was collective, involving everyone who approached the cockpit area. Assaf Rejwan recounted the terrifying moments in the air, describing a feeling of helplessness and an instinctual drive to survive and protect others. The "President's Award for Civil Heroism" was established by President Herzog during the war to recognize civilians who exhibit extraordinary bravery and risk their lives for others. The award is granted after review by an advisory committee and is considered Israel's highest civilian honor.

In a separate meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with some of the passengers, including Hayun and Musayev, and expressed his intention for them to light a torch of civil heroism on Independence Day. Netanyahu remarked that "the whole world sees Israeli heroism."