FlyDubai Co-Pilot Planned 9/11-Style Attack on Tel Aviv's Azrieli Towers

The co-pilot of a FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, identified as 29-year-old Hamam Al-Hamami, allegedly planned to crash the plane into Israel's Azrieli Towers in an attack inspired by the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. This information was revealed by a senior Emirati official speaking to journalist Smadar Perry for Ynet, with reports also carried by Israel National News. The official stated that Al-Hamami intended to incapacitate the Indian captain, seize control of the cockpit, and steer the aircraft towards Israel. The investigation is being conducted in Abu Dhabi under the direction of UAE Prosecutor General Hamad Saif Al-Shamsi, with participation from Mossad agents, Israeli aviation experts, Saudi and Omani intelligence representatives, and at least two American officials. Israeli investigators are expected to be allowed to participate in questioning the co-pilot. The probe is also examining Al-Hamami's professional background and recruitment by FlyDubai. Reports indicate he was previously fired by Oman Air due to extremist views and banned from piloting in his home country, with "compromising documents" found during his training in Oman. He was allegedly barred from the cockpit before his dismissal. He then reportedly moved to Morocco, spent time in Syria, and was subsequently hired by FlyDubai. During his eight months with the airline, he made dozens of flights to Israel, including one just days before the incident. The Emirati official indicated that authorities intend to seek the death penalty for Al-Hamami, even though no fatalities occurred, viewing it as a deterrent measure. "There will be no leniency," the official stated, adding that no pardons would be granted. This reflects the official's reported stance, not a judicial decision.