UAE probes ‘terror’ link after flydubai cockpit attack on flight to Israel

DUBAI, October 1 — The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is investigating a potential "terrorist" connection to an incident aboard a flydubai flight en route to Israel, which prompted an emergency landing. The events unfolded on Wednesday when a co-pilot allegedly stabbed his colleague in the cockpit, attempting to crash the aircraft. Passengers swiftly intervened, taking control of the situation and averting what could have been a catastrophic disaster.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the passengers and the Indian pilot, Smit Machchhar, for their heroism in protecting hundreds of lives. Israeli officials have labeled the incident as an attempted terrorist attack, though Netanyahu suggested mental health issues may have been a factor. The UAE's chief prosecutor confirmed an investigation into the matter, including the possibility of terrorist intent.

Israeli far-right security minister Itamar Ben Gvir referred to the incident as a "jihadist" attack, while Defense Minister Israel Katz described it as "an attempted jihadist terror attack." Flydubai reported that all 174 passengers, 166 of whom were from Israel, were unharmed. Netanyahu hailed the passengers as heroes for their quick actions, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the pilot as a hero for his bravery. The airline has suspended flights to Israel while the investigation continues.