Israel Joins Probe Into Co-Pilot's Plot to Crash Plane in Tel Aviv

Israeli intelligence and aviation experts are participating in the investigation of an attempted terror attack on a Flydubai flight in Abu Dhabi. The co-pilot, identified as 29-year-old Maam Al-Hamami, allegedly planned to incapacitate the Indian pilot, seize control of the aircraft, and crash it into a tall building in Israel, believed to be the Azrieli Towers in Tel Aviv. According to a senior UAE official cited in the report, Saudi, Omani, and at least two American intelligence representatives are also involved in the probe, which is being led by the UAE's Attorney General, Hamad Saif Al-Shamsi. The Israeli contingent is expected to be present during interrogation sessions.

Al-Hamami was reportedly fired from Oman Air previously due to extremist views and was barred from serving as a pilot in his home country. He later moved to Morocco, visited Syria, and was eventually hired by Flydubai. During his eight months with the airline, he allegedly visited Israel dozens of times, with his last visit occurring just days before the incident. Investigators suspect he intended to neutralize the pilot, take over the cockpit, and fly the plane towards Israel.

The investigation is also examining how Al-Hamami was hired by Flydubai, with the official stating that "incriminating materials" were found in his possession during his training in Oman, leading to him being restricted from the cockpit until his dismissal. The senior official indicated that upon completion of the investigation, Al-Hamami could face the death penalty. The UAE intends to seek the harshest punishment to serve as a deterrent, emphasizing that there will be no leniency or pardon.