UAE Designates Flydubai Hijacking Attempt as 'Terrorist Act'

In a significant policy shift, the United Arab Emirates has officially classified the attempted hijacking of a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv as a "dangerous terrorist act." Dr. Anwar Gargash, a senior advisor to the UAE President, praised the Indian captain of the flight, Sumit Machhar, for his heroic actions in preventing a potential disaster. Gargash lauded Machhar's courage, professionalism, and moral sense in confronting the dangerous terrorist act, calling him a true hero.

Gargash also issued a stern warning against regional escalation, urging vigilance against extremism and terrorism without oversimplifying the incident or promoting conspiracy theories. This official designation comes after a deeply moving phone call between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Captain Machhar, who is still hospitalized with severe injuries.

During the call, Machhar recounted the terrifying moments in the cockpit, describing how he was repeatedly attacked and stabbed by the Omani co-pilot, who initiated a rapid dive. Machhar explained that despite his severe injuries, he managed to open the cockpit door, allowing crew and passengers to overpower the attacker. This intervention led to the safe landing of the Boeing aircraft in Saudi Arabia, with all 174 passengers and crew surviving.

Machhar shared that he drew strength from his prayers and Hindu scriptures during the ordeal. Prime Minister Modi expressed his strong support and admiration for Machhar's bravery, emphasizing the pride he felt in the captain's actions.