Netanyahu invites PM Modi, flydubai pilot to light torch at Israel's Independence Day event

Netanyahu said PM Modi expressed solidarity in fight against terrorism while hailing the "strong and decades-old ties" between India and Israel.

Updated on: Oct 22, 2026, 19:16:44 IST

By Akanksha Verma

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday and invited him to participate in Israel's Independence Day. The Israeli PM called upon PM Modi to light the torch on the occasion alongside flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar, who averted a major aviation tragedy earlier in September.

Israeli PM Netanyahu shared a picture with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on X. (@netanyahu)

"I spoke with my friend, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and invited him to light the torch alongside a brave Indian pilot on Israel’s Independence Day," he said, adding that PM Modi thanked him in return.

On September 30, Captain Smit Machchhar was attacked by his Omani co-pilot inside the cockpit as he prevented the latter's alleged bid to crash the flydubai flight FZ1073 travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

Netanyahu-Modi discuss bilateral ties

Netanyahu further said PM Modi expressed solidarity in fight against terrorism while hailing the "strong and decades-old ties" between India and Israel.

Minutes after Netanyahu's post, Prime Minister Modi took to X and said, “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.”

Divulging the topics of their discussion, Prime Minister Modi said the two leaders exchanged views on the latest developments in West Asia, which has been witnessing a violent conflict, and emphasised the need to restore peace and stability in the region.

The telephone conversation came in the backdrop of ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Iran and Saudi Arabia. Israel has been embroiled in prolonged armed conflicts with Palestinian, Iranian and Yemeni groups in West Asia.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Get Latest News, breaking headlines, and top India News, and today real-time updates from across the nation. Stay informed on politics, government policies, crime, Today Weather, and major developments on Hindustan Times