Israelis Fear Flying After Hijacking Attempt, Refuse Rescue Flight

Following a hijacking attempt on a Flydubai flight carrying 166 Israeli passengers, where the co-pilot allegedly tried to attack the captain, some passengers are refusing to board a rescue flight organized by the airline in Saudi Arabia. Other passengers remain hesitant to fly again with the same airline due to severe concerns. Israeli security and political officials are monitoring the situation and considering chartering an additional plane to bring the Israelis home. Despite the rescue flight being pre-screened by the Mossad, diplomatic efforts are underway with Saudi Arabia to permit an unmarked Israeli aircraft. Security assessments suggest the co-pilot acted alone, without Iranian direction, though the Mossad-led investigation continues. In response to the incident, Transportation Minister Miri Regev recommended, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered, a temporary halt to all Flydubai flights to and from Israel pending the investigation's conclusion. A dedicated reception area has been established at Ben Gurion Airport for the returning passengers and their families.