Israeli President Awards Civil Courage Medals to Flydubai Flight Heroes

Israeli President Isaac Herzog presented the "Civil Courage Award" to six Israeli passengers and the Indian pilot of a Flydubai flight during an emotional ceremony at the President's Residence in Jerusalem. Their bravery and resourcefulness averted a major aviation disaster. The honored passengers include Tali Mans, who first noticed the incident and raised the alarm; Yaniv Hayun, Tzvika Mans, Or Pardilov, and Assaf Radwan, who intervened and subdued the attacker; and Dr. Shota Musayev, who provided medical aid to the injured captain and helped restrain the assailant. The Indian captain was also commended for fighting the attacker with his remaining strength and managing to open the cockpit door for the passengers. President Herzog stated that the heroism displayed on the flight demonstrated the true spirit of Israel, characterized by courage and resourcefulness, especially in moments of extreme danger where societal divisions become irrelevant. He emphasized that their actions saved 174 passengers and crew, preventing a catastrophe that could have significantly impacted Israel and the Middle East. The President also stressed that while honoring their bravery, authorities must provide clear answers to the public regarding the circumstances of the incident. The awards were granted based on the recommendation of a special committee headed by retired Supreme Court Justice Elyakim Rubinstein. Herzog drew parallels to the "Entebbe of our time," highlighting that Israeli civil heroism is present in all aspects of life, from battlefronts to everyday streets, embodying the nation's resilience and commitment to life.