Watch: Netanyahu invites PM Modi, pilot Machchhar to Israel I-Day

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended an invitation to Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar to participate in lighting a flame during Israel's Independence Day ceremony. Netanyahu described Machchhar as a "hero" of Israel, India, and the world for thwarting an alleged attack on a flight bound for Israel. During a telephone conversation with Machchhar, the Israeli leader learned about the harrowing incident that occurred on flydubai flight FZ1073, which was en route to Israel when the pilot was assaulted by his co-pilot with a crash axe.

The aircraft experienced a rapid descent of over 17,000 feet and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The co-pilot has been identified as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami. Netanyahu praised Machchhar's actions, emphasizing that he saved numerous lives and the spirit of the world. The Israeli Prime Minister also expressed his desire to have both Netanyahu and Machchhar light the flame during the Independence Day event.