Omani Co-Pilot Suspected of Attempted Hijacking on FlyDubai Flight to Israel

Israeli security services are investigating the motives and background of a co-pilot suspected of attacking the captain of a FlyDubai flight en route to Israel. The co-pilot, identified as an Omani citizen, had reportedly been employed by FlyDubai for approximately nine months. The incident occurred on flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Israel, during which the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain with a knife, causing the aircraft to lose altitude rapidly. The captain, despite his injuries, resisted the attacker, and other passengers and crew members intervened. Israeli authorities are exploring the possibility that the co-pilot intended to seize control of the plane and cause a crash, with potential motives including a terrorist attack or suicide. The co-pilot's Omani citizenship is noted, as Oman does not have diplomatic relations with Israel. Aviation authorities in the UAE are expected to review FlyDubai's hiring processes and security protocols for flights to Israel. Following an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, the suspect was taken into custody by Saudi authorities. The injured captain and the suspect are reportedly hospitalized in Saudi Arabia. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz described the incident as a suspected jihadist terror attack, stating the attacker aimed to crash the plane. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened with security advisors following the event to prepare for potential further threats.