The flydubai passengers have returned home safely, and that is all that matters for now - editorial
A terrorist tried to hijack an aircraft carrying 166 Israelis. He failed. They are alive and safe. For now, that is more than enough.
The passengers of flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv are now safely back home, which is all that matters at this time. The incident, which took place on Wednesday, was an attempted terror hijacking. One of the pilots stabbed another pilot and tried to take control of the plane carrying 174 passengers, 166 of them Israelis. The aircraft plummeted thousands of meters before landing safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, and all 174 passengers survived.
The bravery of the passengers aboard the aircraft played a crucial role in stopping the hijacker. A passenger told The Jerusalem Post that those near the cockpit rushed to help as the struggle unfolded, using charging cables to restrain the terrorist. An Israeli dentist aboard the flight also treated the wounded pilot. None of the passengers expected to be part of a life-or-death situation, but their courage, composure, and willingness to put themselves in danger to protect others is commendable.
Serious questions have been raised about how the terrorist was able to pilot an aircraft bound for Israel and whether all security requirements were followed. However, this incident should not be used to undermine the relationship between the UAE and Israel. The UAE has a history of maintaining ties with Israel despite regional upheaval, including war, and the attack should not change that.
Saudi Arabia also deserves Israel's gratitude for providing a safe landing for the aircraft, offering food, medical care, and assistance to the passengers, especially the frightened children and families.
While there will undoubtedly be questions and investigations into how this attack was possible, it is important to focus on the positive aspects of the story. The passengers who ran towards danger, the pilots who regained control of the aircraft, the dentist who treated the wounded pilot mid-air, and the Saudis who welcomed Israelis in Tabuk and cared for them. These acts of bravery and compassion have ensured that 174 families received a positive call instead of a tragic one.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
