Israeli Air Force Scrambles Jets Amid Hijacking Fears Over Dubai-Tel Aviv Flight
An Israeli Air Force fighter jet squadron was scrambled on Wednesday morning after a Flydubai passenger plane traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv transmitted emergency codes, including one indicating a potential hijacking. The Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, carrying approximately 180 passengers, initially broadcast code 7700, signifying a general emergency, followed by code 7500, used to report a hijacking.
The flight, which was about 90 minutes from landing in Israel, deviated from its planned route over Jordan and was observed turning towards Saudi Arabia. The plane subsequently disappeared from flight tracking applications, with its last known position being at 5,000 feet over Jordan.
Israeli defense officials believe the aircraft is likely to land in Saudi Arabia, based on its flight path and other intelligence. There is currently no communication with the plane, and it is not permitted to land in Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Katz, and Transportation Minister Regev are reportedly engaged in urgent discussions regarding the developing situation.
The incident has been known to Israeli authorities for about half an hour, and security agencies are investigating any potential connection between the aircraft and Saudi Arabia, though the full picture remains unclear.
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