News Channel 12 Criticized for Airing Hoax About Flydubai Flight Incident

Israeli news outlet Channel 12 is facing criticism after airing an interview with a man claiming to be a passenger on a Flydubai flight that made an emergency landing in Israel. The flight's diversion was reportedly due to an altercation in the cockpit. Radio host Yossi Davidov revealed on social media that a friend had pranked Channel 12's researchers, claiming to be on the flight and fabricating details, including a fake name and stating his brother was also aboard. The hoax interview, which lasted nearly five minutes, was broadcast live, with Davidov calling Channel 12 a "joke" that should not be associated with journalism.

The prankster reportedly ended the interview himself, feeling the situation had become too embarrassing. The incident has sparked widespread ridicule online, though some have defended the news channel. Doria Lampel, a presenter for Channel 13, stated that only those unfamiliar with live broadcasting during unfolding events could attribute the error to unprofessionalism, and that hatred blinds those who find the situation amusing or acceptable.

Meanwhile, the circumstances surrounding the flight incident itself are under investigation. A senior Israeli official involved in discussions about the event revealed that a "very heavy disaster was averted," stating that one pilot allegedly stabbed another and attempted an act akin to 9/11, either by hijacking the plane or crashing it. The official drew parallels to global terrorism events like September 2001 or July 1976.