UAE Official Labels Flydubai Hijacking Attempt 'Terrorist Act'

Anwar Gargash, senior diplomatic advisor to the UAE president, has for the first time officially designated the attempted hijacking of a Flydubai flight as a "terrorist act." Gargash stated on social media that the pilot, identified as Mochhar, demonstrated "true courage and responsibility" in the face of a "serious terrorist threat and potential disaster." He urged vigilance against the dangers of extremism and terrorism, cautioning against simplistic interpretations or conspiracy theories.

The pilot, Mochhar, recounted to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi how he managed to open the cockpit door while on the floor, after being attacked by the co-pilot. Mochhar sustained multiple stab wounds and was hospitalized after the plane landed in Saudi Arabia. In a televised interview, Mochhar described fighting for his life and the critical moment he forced the door open, allowing others to intervene.

The co-pilot, an Omani citizen, reportedly attacked Mochhar while the plane, en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv, was over Saudi airspace. The apparent intention was to crash the aircraft with its 180 passengers. Mochhar's struggle and subsequent opening of the cockpit door enabled other crew members to subdue the attacker.

Two additional pilots took control of the aircraft and successfully landed it in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia announced the transfer of the Omani co-pilot to the UAE, with joint investigation teams from both countries cooperating. Israel views this transfer positively, believing it will enhance investigative cooperation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested the co-pilot was influenced by "radical Islam" and stated that any potential links to Iran would be investigated. He also claimed the attacker exploited a "loophole" in Israeli security policy. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated he believed Iran might be involved, pending further investigation.