UAE Calls Attempted Plane Crash a 'Terrorist Act'

Anwar Gargash, an advisor to the UAE's president, officially designated the recent attempt to crash a Flydubai flight as a "terrorist act" on Friday. This marks the first time the Emirates have formally labeled the incident as terrorism while an investigation is underway. Gargash made these remarks on social media, praising the pilot, Smith Machchar, for his bravery and responsibility in averting a potential disaster. He emphasized the need for vigilance against extremism and terrorism.

While some in Israel were hesitant to label the event as terrorism, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the picture was becoming clearer, suggesting the perpetrator was motivated by Islamist radicalization and intended to crash the plane. Netanyahu indicated that Israel is investigating whether the attacker was sent and by whom, vowing that those responsible would pay a heavy price. Defense Minister Israel Katz had previously called the incident a "jihadist terrorist attempt."

Netanyahu also mentioned in a US interview that it was too early to determine if Iran was involved, but that this would be investigated. The investigation into the incident has now moved to the UAE, with the Indian pilot and the Omani co-pilot transferred to the country. Israel, which requested observer status in the investigation in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, was denied by Riyadh but hopes for cooperation with Abu Dhabi.

The pilot, Smith Machchar, spoke from a hospital, recounting the terrifying moments when he felt the plane plummeting and realized he had only seconds to act. He described his efforts to regain control and open the door, crediting the medical care he received in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Machchar expressed his admiration for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised the pilot's courage and composure for saving the lives of 170 passengers. Modi stated that the pilot's actions demonstrated that Indians are people who risk their lives to save others.