Was Flydubai cockpit attack planned? UAE probe to examine possible terror link

The UAE has initiated a probe into the Flydubai mid-air incident where an alleged attack by an Omani co-pilot aimed to crash a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight. This comes after the flight was diverted and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formed a specialized Public Prosecution team to investigate the incident, looking into all circumstances and motives, including possible links to terrorism, prior planning, or direction.

The investigation will explore whether the attacker's actions were premeditated or if there was any prior direction. UAE judicial authorities have jurisdiction over the case as the aircraft is registered in the UAE and operates under its flag. The UAE thanked Saudi authorities for their cooperation and urged the public to rely on official statements until the investigation is concluded.

Saudi Arabia will initially investigate the Omani pilot accused of attempting to crash the flight before transferring him to the UAE for further examination. Israeli officials expect the UAE investigation to yield more significant findings after the Saudi probe is completed.