Netanyahu invites Modi and pilot to Israel torch ceremony

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to join pilot Smit Machchhar in a ceremonial torch-lighting at Israel’s Independence Day celebrations. Netanyahu said the invitation recognized Machchhar for his reported actions during an incident aboard a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight. Modi’s acceptance has not been reported. Netanyahu described his conversation with Modi in a social-media post on October 22, 2026. He said Modi thanked him for the invitation and spoke of India and Israel cooperating against terrorism. The reported exchange about the invitation and Modi’s response comes from Netanyahu’s account. Modi separately said the leaders reviewed bilateral ties and discussed recent developments in West Asia. He said they reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the partnership and emphasized the need to restore peace and stability. The Prime Minister’s Office of India also confirmed the call and said Modi reiterated India’s support for dialogue and diplomacy. Neither Modi’s post nor the office’s statement mentioned the torch-lighting invitation. Netanyahu’s invitation also named Machchhar, a Flydubai captain. Reports say he was...