Netanyahu Holds Islamic Radical Indoctrination Responsible for Flydubai Attacker
During a brief interview with Fox News on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the man who stabbed a fellow pilot and tried to seize a Flydubai aircraft en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv was a product of Islamist radical indoctrination. Netanyahu described the attacker, an Omani national, as “very likely” to have intended to down the plane.
The incident occurred approximately two hours into the flight when the jet plunged more than 17,000 feet (5,200 m). Passengers and crew reacted quickly, restraining the assailant and regaining control before the aircraft was diverted to Tabuk Airport in north‑west Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
The United Arab Emirates’ state news agency is launching an investigation to determine whether the attack was linked to any terrorist activity, while Saudi authorities have taken the pilot and co‑pilot home after medical clearance. Officials in the UAE point out that the aircraft is registered under the Emirati flag and therefore falls under its jurisdiction.
Netanyahu added that the attacker, once subdued, was shouting “kill me, kill me,” indicating a suicidal motive. However, he cautioned that conclusions on motive remain tentative.
Both U.S. President Donald Trump and UAE officials have hinted that Iran may have had a hand in the incident, though no definitive accusation has been made. Trump stated that any Iranian involvement would be met with “very hard” repercussions.
The Australian passenger Almog Itali recounted the flight as a “rollercoaster” experience, describing the sudden 17,000‑foot drop as terrifying yet survivable thanks to the brave actions of fellow passengers.
In related commentary, Israeli and Indian officials have praised the stabbed pilot, Indian national Captain Smit Machchhar, labeling him a hero. An Indian ambassador visited the officer in hospital, noting his swift recovery.
Flydubai has temporarily suspended all flights between Dubai and Tel Aviv, and Israel’s Transportation Ministry has aligned the suspension with the Prime Minister’s directives. Israeli airlines plan rescue flights to bring back stranded passengers, and international carriers have been asked to increase services to Jerusalem.
The incident has escalated security concerns across the Middle East and raised questions about vetting procedures for pilots traveling between territories lacking diplomatic ties. The case remains under investigation by Israeli intelligence and airline authorities, with international observers awaiting further clarification.
