Netanyahu Invites PM Modi Along With Flydubai Pilot to Light Torch on Israel’s Independence Day

Netanyahu extended the prestigious invitation to PM Modi alongside Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian flydubai pilot who heroically averted an aviation disaster on September 30 by thwarting his co-pilot’s alleged attempt to crash flight FZ1073 en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. “I invited him to light the torch alongside a brave Indian pilot on Israel’s Independence Day,” Netanyahu stated, adding that PM Modi expressed gratitude for the honour.

שוחחתי עם חברי, ראש ממשלת הודו נרנדרה מודי, והזמנתי אותו להשיא משואה יחד עם הטייס ההודי הגיבור ביום העצמאות של מדינת ישראל.

מודי הודה לי על ההזמנה ואמר כי על הקרקע ובאוויר, הודו וישראל נלחמות יחד בטרור. הוא הביע את הערכתו לקשר האמיץ ורב השנים בינינו. 🇮🇱 🇮🇳

— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 22, 2026

During the telephone conversation, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening India-Israel strategic ties and reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation. They also conducted a detailed exchange on the evolving security situation in West Asia amid ongoing regional conflicts involving Gaza, Iran, and Yemen.

Posting on X following the call, Prime Minister Modi confirmed the discussion, highlighting the focus on regional stability. “We reviewed the sustained momentum in our bilateral ties and reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthening our partnership,” Modi shared, emphasising the urgent need for a peaceful resolution and the restoration of normalcy across West Asia.

Received a phone call from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. We reviewed the sustained momentum in our bilateral ties and reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthening our partnership.

We also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia and underscored the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region.

@netanyahu

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 22, 2026