Flydubai Pilot Attempts Hijacking, Foiled by Passengers

One hundred and seventy-four Israeli passengers were returned to Ben-Gurion Airport on Tuesday evening following an incident involving an attempted hijacking on a flydubai commercial flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The deputy pilot of the flight allegedly stabbed the lead pilot and attempted to crash the aircraft. Passengers intervened, restraining the hijacker and assisting the injured pilot. The flight was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where the lead pilot, a native of India, was reported to be in critical condition but later stabilized. A medical professional among the passengers helped to treat the injured pilot. After approximately six hours in Saudi Arabia, a second flydubai aircraft, staffed by a new crew approved by the Mossad, transported the passengers back to Israel. Delays in their return were attributed to Saudi Arabia's refusal to allow an Israeli aircraft to pick them up, citing concerns over political implications. Multiple sources indicated that Israeli security agencies believe the hijacker acted alone, without orders from external terrorist groups. Investigations are ongoing into security failures that allowed the hijacker to board with a weapon. The incident prompted heightened security measures, including the temporary closure of Israeli airspace and the deployment of fighter jets. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly spoke with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan following the event. Upon their return, passengers expressed relief and gratitude, with some meeting Netanyahu and sharing their experiences with the media. The incident has raised questions about the safety of flights between Israel and the UAE, with discussions of potential flight bans until security issues are resolved.