UAE President Offers Israel Aid After Flydubai Flight Attack Attempt

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan contacted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday evening, September 30, following an attempted terrorist attack on a Flydubai flight. The UAE president inquired about the passengers' well-being and offered assistance. The leaders discussed flight security and agreed to address the issue.

Netanyahu was also scheduled to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump later that night. Concurrently, Israeli Foreign Minister G Gideon Sa'ar held a conversation with his Emirati counterpart, Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE president's brother. According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, both expressed a commitment to cooperating against extremists threatening regional security and stability. Sa'ar updated his counterpart on the return of Israeli passengers, who were welcomed home by the UAE minister.

Flydubai flights to Israel have been suspended for six days, with the possibility of extension pending the investigation into the attack attempt on the flight to Tel Aviv. Israeli sources indicate this decision was coordinated with the UAE. During the suspension, Israeli airlines will transport Israeli passengers home to prevent lengthy delays. The Shin Bet has issued a temporary, multi-day permit for Israeli airlines to operate flights to the UAE, but only using leased aircraft.

Yaniv Hayoun, an Israeli dentist who was among those who subdued the attacker, recounted the incident to Netanyahu upon his return to Israel. Hayoun described how the assailant was neutralized. Passengers from the Flydubai flight have since returned to Israel.