Israel to Evacuate Stranded Citizens from Dubai Amid Security Concerns

Following Israel's decision to suspend all Flydubai flights for at least six days, Israeli airlines may begin evacuating stranded passengers from Dubai as early as tomorrow, under heightened security measures. The move comes after an attempted hijacking of a Flydubai plane, which was scheduled to carry over 100 Israelis. The incident has prompted Israeli authorities to re-evaluate security protocols.

Israeli carriers are expected to operate the repatriation flights, with enhanced security arrangements in place. Concurrently, a decision regarding the resumption of flights by Israeli airlines to Dubai is reportedly imminent. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a conversation with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed following the security incident.

According to reports, the UAE's agreement to install additional baggage and passenger screening equipment has paved the way for the potential return of Israeli carriers to Dubai. Following the Flydubai incident, Netanyahu ordered increased security measures for both Israeli and foreign airlines operating in Israel.

Prior to this latest event, Israel's Shin Bet security agency had extended a ban on Israeli airlines, including El Al, Israir, and Arkia, from landing in the UAE due to security threats. However, Emirati airlines like Etihad and Flydubai had continued to fly to Israel.

The Flydubai plane was involved in a serious incident where its pilot was reportedly attacked, forcing the aircraft to divert and land in Saudi Arabia. Israeli airlines had previously criticized the flight restrictions, warning of potential financial losses amounting to tens of millions of shekels. These restrictions, initially in place until October, were expected to be extended. The current situation, however, may allow Israeli airlines to resume flights to the UAE sooner than anticipated.