Israel minister Ben-Gvir to demand flydubai co-pilot's extradition after foiled ‘crash bid’. UAE asserts ‘jurisdiction’ over probe

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir plans to demand the extradition of the flydubai pilot, who attempted to hijack a Tel Aviv-bound passenger plane on Wednesday, at the upcoming security cabinet meeting, as per a statement from his office. The pilot, a member of the security cabinet, is expected to face questioning and prosecution in Israel for his alleged role in the terror attempt.

Ben-Gvir emphasized that the perpetrator, who planned to crash the plane and kill 180 Israelis, must be brought to Israel and face the harshest consequences. He stated, "Anyone who planned to crash a plane and murder 180 Israelis must be extradited to Israel and pay the heaviest price here." Ben-Gvir stressed that the incident, which was averted by divine intervention and the heroic actions of passengers, necessitates a clear security doctrine: anyone who attempts to harm or murder Israelis will be pursued and dealt with anywhere in the world.

The Transportation Ministry halted flydubai flights to Israel for investigation, with Transportation Minister Miri Regev calling for a suspension following concerns over the pilot's presence on the route. Israeli aviation and security officials are now reviewing procedures for addressing suspicious aircraft approaching Israeli airspace.