Pilot carrying Israelis stabbed co-pilot, apparently tried to crash: Netanyahu

TEL AVIV, Israel — A pilot on a FlyDubai flight from the United Arab Emirates to Israel allegedly stabbed another pilot and attempted to crash the aircraft carrying approximately 170 individuals, according to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Passengers and crew members swiftly subdued the attacker, and the plane safely landed in Saudi Arabia.

Amidst the chaos, passengers screamed, and the FlyDubai flight issued an emergency alert, prompting an immediate descent from a great height. Israeli military scrambled warplanes, fearing the possibility of a hijacking. Upon landing in Israel, the extent of the injuries was evident as two men were seen on the plane's floor, visibly injured and bleeding.

Medical personnel rushed to their aid, while others ensured the cockpit remained secure. Videos circulating on social media and reviewed by The Associated Press depicted the harrowing scene, with passengers weeping and pleading as the aircraft shook violently. Those who intervened "saved many lives and prevented a major disaster," stated Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the tragic incident.