Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed a pilot aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv stabbed a colleague and attempted to crash the aircraft, leading to an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The incident involved a dramatic descent and emergency signals that prompted Israel to deploy fighter jets.
Netanyahu reported that passengers and crew intervened inside the cockpit, subduing the attacker and regaining control of the aircraft. The flight, which had 150 Israeli passengers, descended rapidly and transmitted distress signals, prompting a security response. Both pilots were hospitalized with injuries.
Saudi authorities arrested one of the pilots, and the aircraft landed safely in Tabuk. The incident highlights the risks on a route frequently used by Israeli nationals, with no confirmation of a hijacking. Netanyahu emphasized the bravery of those who prevented a potential disaster.