Saudi Arabia's Secretive Handling of Flydubai Pilot's Attack Raises Terror Concerns

Saudi Arabia's transfer of a co-pilot involved in a recent attempted attack on a Flydubai flight from Saudi Arabia to the UAE is seen by analyst Yoni Ben Menachem as an effort to distance Riyadh from a "hot potato." Ben Menachem suggests that if the investigation reveals ties to Iran or an organized terror network operating from Saudi territory, the implications for Riyadh could be severe, potentially leading to a direct and sensitive confrontation with Tehran. He stressed, however, that this is just one possibility and not a proven conclusion, with the investigation ongoing.

The co-pilot, identified as Hammam Al-Hamami, allegedly visited Ben Gurion Airport in recent months as part of his work. During a visit in July, he is suspected of gathering information to plan the attack. Days later, he piloted a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, reportedly intending to crash it into Israel. However, investigators believe he postponed the plan until late September due to guilt and proximity to a crew member.

New details suggest the co-pilot's actions went beyond attacking the captain and causing a steep altitude drop; he also allegedly attempted to shut down both engines. The incident created a complex security situation, as Saudi Arabia does not have diplomatic relations with Israel. Initially, Saudi authorities held the suspect, and Israel requested information from their investigation, with Israeli officials stating Riyadh did not provide all requested details.

The situation shifted when the suspect was transferred from Saudi Arabia to the UAE for further investigation. An Israeli team is now participating in the UAE inquiry, focusing on whether the pilot acted alone or was part of a broader terror plot, possibly involving a state actor.