Netanyahu Addresses Cockpit Attack on Flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the cockpit attack that occurred on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv during an interview with Fox News on Wednesday.</p><p>Netanyahu detailed the incident and commended the actions of passengers who subdued the alleged attacker, particularly praising Yaniv Chayon, who entered the cockpit and restrained the assailant.</p><p>The prime minister stated that the quick response prevented a potential disaster. He remarked, "The passengers, including 30 children, are already saying their prayers. They know they're gone from this world," and highlighted Chayon's actions as heroic.</p><p>Netanyahu emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "He acted with coolness of judgment and heroism… just tremendous courage that prevented another 9/11."</p><p>The 9/11 attacks resulted in nearly 3,000 fatalities.</p><p>According to reports, a pilot on the Israel-bound FlyDubai flight allegedly stabbed another pilot and attempted to crash the plane, which had over 100 passengers on board. Authorities are treating this as a suspected hijacking.</p><p>The injured captain managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers to assist in subduing the attacker and stabilizing the aircraft.</p><p>Earlier on Wednesday, Netanyahu met with Chayon, praising his bravery in taking control of the situation under difficult circumstances. He recounted Chayon's response when asked how he managed to act, stating, "Well, I just had to do it."</p><p>Netanyahu attributed the attack to hatred rooted in antisemitism, claiming that many have been influenced by propaganda that vilifies Israel. He noted, "I don't know the exact background of this person, the attacker, but he obviously hated Israelis because he was going to kill about 170 of them on this plane, killing himself, too."</p><p>The aircraft reportedly dropped from 30,000 feet to 17,000 feet in about one minute before diverting to Saudi Arabia, where other pilots took control and landed it safely.</p><p>The pilot of Flight 1073 has been identified as Capt. Smit Machchhar, who is currently in critical condition after sustaining serious injuries.</p><p>Netanyahu stated that the alleged attacker was arrested after the plane made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. An Israeli official indicated that the co-pilot is an Omani national.</p><p>FlyDubai has announced that all flights in and out of Israel will be suspended while investigations continue. Israeli officials are examining the co-pilot’s motive and whether he acted alone.</p><p>Netanyahu concluded by suggesting, "Just think about it... If you're next hijacked, make sure an Israeli is sitting next to you."</p>