flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv was derailed when a co‑pilot stabbed Captain Smit Machachhar, forcing passengers and reserve pilots to prevent a crash.
The attack was thwarted by the crew and a group of passengers, including a plumber, who forced the co‑pilot to relinquish control. Two reserve pilots subsequently landed the aircraft in Saudi Arabia.
President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters, said his team is investigating a possible Iranian link, adding that he believes the answer is "yes" based on what he is hearing.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Fox News that it is too early to confirm any Iranian connection but that he expects to be able to confirm within days. He also noted the co‑pilot exhibited signs of Islamist radicalisation.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar identified the co‑pilot as an Omani national, though his identity has not yet been publicly released. The UAE and international investigators are probing whether the incident was tied to terrorist activity.
The incident has prompted calls for tighter security protocols on international flights and for clearer cooperation between aviation authorities and intelligence agencies.