Israeli President Herzog Hails Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar, Recommends Four Civilians for Heroism Honour

Herzog thanked Machchhar for continuing to act despite being seriously injured during the incident, saying his determination played a crucial role in preventing a potentially major disaster.

"To Captain Smith Machchhar - thank you from the bottom of my heart for the bravery, determination, and actions that saved many lives. I wish you a full recovery and strong health. The State of Israel extends immense gratitude to you," Herzog posted on X.

Machchhar was attacked and severely wounded while the flight was in the air but continued efforts to protect those on board. The aircraft was eventually diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia for an emergency landing.

Herzog also announced that he would recommend four Israeli passengers, Yaniv Hayoun, Dr Shota Musayev, Zvika Manes and Asaf Rajuan, for the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism in recognition of their actions during the incident.

"At a time when the lives of so many people were in danger, you acted without hesitation, with courage, resourcefulness, and extraordinary mutual responsibility. You put yourselves at risk to save others and prevented a terrible disaster. Today, the whole world saw the beautiful and courageous face of Israeli society," Herzog said.

"I am proud of you, and I thank you on behalf of the State of Israel. I intend to bring your story of heroism before the advisory committee for the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism and to recommend that it grant you the award," he added.

According to the account of the incident, one of the pilots stabbed Machchhar, after which the aircraft began losing altitude. Machchhar fought the attacker and managed to open the cockpit door.

Tali Manes, the wife of Zvika Manes, raised the alarm after realising that something was wrong. Hayoun, Zvika Manes and Rajuan then moved towards the cockpit, where they helped overpower the attacker while Hayoun assisted in stabilising the aircraft's controls.

Dr Musayev subsequently provided emergency medical treatment to the seriously injured Machchhar, helping stabilise the pilot until the aircraft landed in Saudi Arabia.

The actions of the pilot and passengers helped bring the situation under control and prevented what could have developed into a major disaster.

During his conversations with the four Israeli civilians, Herzog praised their courage, quick thinking and willingness to put themselves in danger to protect others.

He said he would present their actions to the advisory committee for the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism and recommend that the honour be awarded to all four.

The Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism is Israel's highest civilian recognition for acts of heroism. It honours individuals who risk their lives to save others during dangerous or extraordinary circumstances.