Israeli Minister Demands Extradition of Flydubai Co-Pilot

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir announced Thursday his intention to request the security cabinet to work towards the extradition to Israel of the Omani co-pilot who allegedly attempted to crash a flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv. The flight, carrying approximately 170 Israelis, was diverted on Wednesday. Ben Gvir also plans to urge the Justice Ministry and relevant diplomatic officials to "use all available means" to ensure the suspect is transferred to Israel for trial. "Someone who planned to crash a plane and murder 180 Israelis must be extradited to Israel and pay the heaviest price," Ben Gvir stated, adding, "Anyone who tries to murder or harm Israelis will be pursued by the State of Israel and will be held accountable, anywhere in the world."

However, a direct extradition may prove complicated. The co-pilot is currently detained in Saudi Arabia, where an initial investigation is underway. He is an Omani national, and neither Saudi Arabia nor Oman has diplomatic relations with Israel. Following the Saudi investigation, the suspect is expected to be handed over to the United Arab Emirates for a new inquiry. While Israel has diplomatic ties with Abu Dhabi, there is no bilateral extradition treaty between the two nations. Emirati authorities are investigating the co-pilot's motives to determine if his actions were premeditated or linked to terrorism.