Netanyahu: Pilot Likely Tried to Crash Dubai Flight with Israelis Aboard

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Wednesday that a pilot on a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Israel likely attempted to crash the plane with its passengers, nearly all of whom were Israeli, aboard. The incident occurred as the flight approached Israel.

According to Netanyahu, one pilot stabbed the other during the flight. He recounted a conversation with a passenger who described the plane entering a spiral and diving. The passenger, along with a crew member, reportedly broke into the cockpit, neutralized the assailant pilot, and prevented him from sabotaging the aircraft's systems. Additional flight crew then entered the cockpit and stabilized the plane.

"I salute these heroes who showed exceptional resourcefulness and courage," Netanyahu said, adding that they "saved many lives and prevented a very heavy disaster." The Prime Minister confirmed that the flight landed safely in Saudi Arabia and all passengers were unharmed. The pilot who allegedly carried out the stabbing has been arrested and is currently being interrogated by Saudi authorities.

Israel is in continuous contact with relevant parties to ensure the safety and return of the passengers. Netanyahu also addressed potential further threats, stating he has instructed the security establishment to prepare for additional threats and that ongoing situation assessments are being conducted.