Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the co-pilot of the FlyDubai flight that nearly crashed into Tel Aviv is likely under Islamist radicalization, warning that those behind the attack will face severe consequences. The incident involved a stabbing by the co-pilot that led to a near-catastrophe but was averted by the pilot's quick action.
The incident occurred on September 30 when the co-pilot stabbed the Indian pilot, causing the plane to plummet. The pilot managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to enter and subdue the attacker. The plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia with no deaths, though the co-pilot was arrested and is now under UAE investigation.
Netanyahu has indicated that the co-pilot may have been sent by an external entity, with the possibility of a link to terrorism. The UAE has taken the incident as a terrorist act, and Israeli officials are working with UAE authorities to determine the full extent of the attack's origins. The flight to Tel Aviv was suspended until October 15.
The motives and affiliations of the co-pilot remain unclear, though Netanyahu has pointed to potential Islamist indoctrination. The incident has raised concerns about security in aviation and the potential for similar attacks, with both Israel and the UAE involved in the investigation.