Netanyahu Compares Flydubai Incident to 9/11, Praises Israeli Passenger

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview with Fox News' Sean Hannity, described a dramatic incident on a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, which he stated could have resulted in a catastrophe akin to 9/11. The flight was nearly brought down when a co-pilot allegedly attacked and seriously injured the captain, causing the plane to dive. An Israeli passenger, identified as Yaniv Hayun, an plumber by profession, reportedly broke into the cockpit with others, subdued the attacker, and helped stabilize the aircraft.

Netanyahu lauded Hayun's "unfathomable courage," stating that the passenger and others prevented a global disaster. He recounted meeting Hayun and being told of his profession, adding that approximately 30 children on board believed they were going to die. Netanyahu humorously advised attendees to "make sure there is an Israeli sitting next to you."

The Prime Minister also revealed he discussed the incident with U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed great admiration for the bravery shown. Regarding potential Iranian involvement, Netanyahu stated it was "too early to say" but that Israel would monitor and possibly participate in the investigation.

In the broader context of Israel's global struggles, Netanyahu characterized Israel as "David fighting Goliath" and criticized online propaganda that distorts reality. He pointed to calls of "Death to Israel" and "Death to America" as evidence of a threat extending beyond Israel. Netanyahu also warned of an "Islamist-Marxist alliance" he believes endangers the West's future, and mentioned that Israel had provided British intelligence with information about an Iran-backed terror plot, criticizing Britain for imposing sanctions on Israel.