A Christian group under the aegis of Christians United for Israel (CUFI) Prayer Outreach has urged Christians to pray for the peace and security of Israel following an emergency involving a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv.
The group also commended the courage and swift response of passengers, crew members and other pilots who helped bring the situation under control after the captain, Smit Machchhar, sustained serious injuries.
In a statement issued to newsmen over the weekend by its Executive Secretary, Revd. Dr. Samson Ozovehe, CUFI Nigeria said the incident could have resulted in a major tragedy but was contained through the intervention of those aboard the aircraft.
The organisation said the aircraft was eventually landed safely in Saudi Arabia after other pilots on board assisted in bringing it under control.
It described the survival of the 174 passengers and crew members as a significant outcome, while commending those who responded promptly during the emergency.
“The courage of Captain Smit Machchhar, the passengers, crew members, and all those whose swift actions helped prevent catastrophe is worthy of recognition,” the statement said.
CUFI Nigeria also expressed solidarity with Israel and those aboard the aircraft, while praying for the recovery of passengers and crew members who sustained injuries during the incident.
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The organisation said the development had reinforced its call for Christians to continue praying for the peace and security of Israel.
“For Christians who stand with Israel, this moment reminds us afresh of the biblical injunction: ‘Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee,’” it stated, quoting Psalm 122:6.
The group attributed the safe outcome to what it described as divine intervention, expressing gratitude that the passengers and crew survived what could have been a catastrophic incident.
“Above all, glory to the God of Israel for His saving grace and preserving hand. We are thankful that this also became a testimony of divine intervention,” the statement added.
CUFI Nigeria prayed for continued protection for Israel and its people, particularly Jerusalem, and called for peace and security across the country.