Netanyahu: Pilot Intended to Crash Plane, Iran May Be Involved

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Friday that the co-pilot of a Flydubai flight who attacked the captain and attempted to crash the plane had undergone Islamist radicalization and intended to "destroy the plane with its passengers." He added that the investigation is examining whether the co-pilot was sent by an entity, warning that "whoever sent him will pay a very heavy price."

Anwar Gargash, advisor to the UAE president, labeled the incident an "act of terror," marking the first official designation of the event as terrorism by the Emirates. The incident occurred on a flight from Dubai to Israel on Wednesday, when the Omani co-pilot attacked the Indian captain, Smith Machchar, with a knife and began to dive the aircraft. The injured captain managed to open the cockpit door, allowing four Israeli passengers, Yeniv Hayon, Dr. Shota Musaev, Zvika Mans, and Assaf Radwan, to enter, subdue the attacker, and prevent the crash.

Netanyahu told American news networks that the Omani pilot appeared to have planned an "Israeli 9/11." He contrasted this with other attacks by noting, "This time the good guys won." He also clarified that Israel had no specific intelligence warning of the event, but the investigation is ongoing and will soon determine if Iran was involved. U.S. President Donald Trump echoed concerns about potential Iranian involvement, stating, "We are checking it. From what I hear, yes," and threatened severe retaliation if Iran is found to be behind the attack.

The Saudi Ministry of Interior reported that the captain and co-pilot were transferred to the Emirates. Initial investigations suggest the co-pilot attacked the captain, leading to their injuries. Israel is expected to participate in the investigation through security and intelligence cooperation with Abu Dhabi, with the Prime Minister's and Justice ministries working to apprehend the Omani co-pilot. President Yitzhak Herzog spoke with the four Israeli passengers, commending their bravery and announcing his intention to recommend them for the President's Award for Civilian Bravery.

Captain Smith Machchar recounted the terrifying moments to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing his fight for survival amidst multiple injuries. Meanwhile, Israeli airlines' return flights from Dubai to Israel are expected to be delayed due to security preparations and coordination requirements.