Israeli Intelligence Joins Probe of FlyDubai Pilot Suspected of Terrorism

Israeli intelligence agencies are joining the investigation into an incident aboard FlyDubai flight FZ1073 and the interrogation of its co-pilot, who is detained in Saudi Arabia. The suspect, an Omani citizen and FlyDubai co-pilot, was apprehended by Saudi authorities after the aircraft made an emergency landing in Tabuk. The investigation involves Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Israel, the United States, and Oman, with inquiries focusing on potential terrorist motives and the suspect's mental state. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed an agreement with UAE President Muhammad bin Zayed for Israel's participation in the co-pilot's interrogation. The suspect is expected to be transferred to the UAE later. The UAE's Attorney General has ordered the creation of a special investigative team to determine the circumstances, motive, and any potential links to terrorism or external direction of the attack. Unconfirmed reports from FlyDubai sources suggest the co-pilot, who joined the airline about eight to nine months ago, exhibited overtly religious behavior. No evidence currently links him to terrorist organizations or accomplices. FlyDubai emphasizes that the cause remains undetermined and urges against premature conclusions. While UAE authorities have not officially classified the incident as a terrorist act, they acknowledge the possibility. Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has definitively described the event as an attempted "Islamist terrorist attack."