Netanyahu invites Modi to co-light Independence Day torch with Indian pilot
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to join Indian pilot Smit Machchhar in lighting a torch at Israel's Independence Day ceremony.
Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Narendra Modi and invited him to be a torch-lighter at Israel's upcoming Independence Day celebrations. The invitation includes sharing the honor with Indian Air Force pilot Smit Machchhar, who prevented a serious aviation disaster on September 30. Modi responded by affirming India's support in combating terrorism and highlighting the strong, decades-old relationship between India and Israel.
Netanyahu noted that Modi expressed gratitude for the gesture. The proposed joint ceremony underscores the diplomatic closeness of the two countries. No further details about logistics or dates were provided.
Why it matters
The invitation signals deepening India-Israel diplomatic ties and a shared stance against terrorism.
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