Trump Suggests Iranian Link to Flydubai Hijacking Attempt

U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that "based on what I hear," Iran has a connection to the attempted hijacking of a Flydubai plane bound for Tel Aviv. Responding to questions about potential Iranian involvement, Trump said, "Based on what I hear, the answer is yes, but we are still checking." He also indicated that it was "possible" the pilot was placed by the Revolutionary Guards. Trump added that if Iran is indeed involved, the U.S. would strike it forcefully.

In Israel, there is currently no definitive indication of Iranian involvement in the Oman-piloted plane's attempt to crash with dozens of Israelis aboard, though the possibility is not being ruled out. Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the pilot had undergone an Islamist radicalization. "It is too early to say if he had a connection to Iran, but we will know within a few days," Netanyahu said, adding that the United Arab Emirates, not Israel, is leading the investigation.

Saudi Arabia has confirmed the motive for the attempted plane crash was terrorism, defining the incident as an attack. Israel is attempting to gather information on the investigation of the pilot, who is currently in Saudi Arabia, but is encountering difficulties as the Saudis are providing only partial information.