Trump Praises Israeli Hero of Flydubai Hijacking Attempt

Former U.S. President Donald Trump posted an unusual personal video on his TikTok account on Thursday night, thanking Israeli plumber Yeniv Hayun for his bravery in subduing a co-pilot who attempted to hijack and crash a Flydubai flight. Trump called Hayun a "big fan" and praised his "amazing job" in stopping the co-pilot, humorously noting that Hayun learned how to fly by watching the TV series "Air Crash Investigation." Trump added, "He can be my plumber. He can be anything he wants to be. What a job he did. He is a hero."

Hayun, 38, from Ness Ziona, was on the flight when the Omani co-pilot, Homaam Al-Hamami, attacked the captain and attempted to take control of the aircraft. Alongside other Israeli passengers, including Zvika Mans, Assaf Rejwan, and dentist Dr. Shota Musaev, Hayun acted decisively. In the critical moments, Hayun helped stabilize the plane and prevented the co-pilot from disabling the main instrument panel. The knowledge he gained from watching "Air Crash Investigation" proved crucial in saving the lives of dozens of passengers.

Alex Besterm, the executive producer of "Air Crash Investigation," stated in an interview that the flight was approximately 90 seconds from a fatal crash. He expressed astonishment that a viewer of his show had managed to save a plane. The Indian captain, who was stabbed by the co-pilot, was able to open the door, which Besterm believes was the single action that could have saved the aircraft.

Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog spoke with Hayun, Musaev, Mans, and Rejwan, commending their extraordinary courage, resourcefulness, and mutual responsibility. Herzog announced his intention to recommend them for the "President's Award for Civilian Heroism."

In separate remarks on Thursday, Trump stated he was considering renewing efforts against Iran in the coming weeks, saying, "Either Iran will sign the deal, or it will no longer exist." When asked if he saw a connection between Iran and the Flydubai incident, Trump replied, "We are checking it. From what I hear, yes." He added, "If it turns out Iran is behind the attack, we will hit them hard."