Pilot Who Attempted to Crash Flydubai Jet Admitted Gaza Motive

"I did it as revenge for Gaza, I wanted to die as a martyr," he told investigators. Israeli security officials are receiving further details from the investigation, which is being conducted by Saudi Arabian and United Arab Emirates authorities. The Shin Bet is also participating in the interrogation of the pilot. Investigators have ruled out suspicions that the flight attendants assisted the pilot in his plan, although they admitted to being confused during the incident. Emirati investigators are not allowing Israeli teams to participate in the questioning of the aircrew.

Authorities are now examining the contents of the pilot's mobile phone for further clues about his intentions and profile. A representative from the Mossad informed Israeli ministers that al-Hamaami had visited countries hostile to Israel in recent years, and they are investigating whether he was recruited or activated by any organization during these visits.

During a cabinet meeting, Minister Regev stated that while responsibility for monitoring foreign flights lies with the Ministry of Transport, they lack the intelligence capabilities to track such threats. She also claimed to have opposed the transfer of authority over chartered flights to her ministry, though the article notes this assertion is not entirely accurate and that the ministry did not receive adequate budgets or resources.