Netanyahu Invites Modi for Israel’s Independence Day Celebrations
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, to light a torch at Israel’s Independence Day ceremony. Mr. Netanyahu announced the invitation on social media following a telephone conversation with Mr. Modi on Thursday night, October 22. Israel is scheduled to celebrate its Independence Day on May 14 next year.
In a post on X, Mr. Netanyahu stated that he extended the invitation to his friend, Indian PM Narendra Modi, along with a brave Indian pilot, to light a torch during Israel’s Independence Day proceedings. Mr. Netanyahu also mentioned that Mr. Modi thanked him for the invitation and lauded the long-standing relations between India and Israel, according to reports by The Indian Express and PTI.
The invited Indian pilot, Smit Machhar, demonstrated exceptional bravery during an incident inside the cockpit of a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30. Reports indicate that despite an alleged assault by the co-pilot, Mr. Machhar managed to open the cockpit door and, with the help of other crew members and pilots, brought the situation under control. The aircraft, carrying 174 passengers, made an emergency landing at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.
Earlier in October, Mr. Netanyahu had initially invited pilot Mr. Machhar and Mr. Modi to light the torch at the Independence Day event, reiterating the invitation during his phone call with Mr. Modi on October 22. However, the selection of torch-lighters for Israel’s Independence Day follows an established official process, meaning Mr. Netanyahu’s invitation alone does not confirm the final selection.
Regarding the telephone conversation, PM Narendra Modi also shared on social media that the two leaders reviewed the progress of bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership. They also discussed recent developments in West Asia, emphasising the need to restore peace and stability in the region.
