Diverted flydubai Flight May Have Been an Attempted Terror Attack, Israeli Officials Say

A flydubai Boeing 737 flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv landed safely at Tabuk airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia on Wednesday after sending emergency signals over Jordanian airspace. The airline says all passengers are accounted for. Israeli media reported about 150 Israelis were on board.

What Israeli Officials Believe

Two Israeli officials, speaking anonymously, said the incident may have been an attempted terror attack by a pilot. They said the co-pilot is believed to have stabbed the captain before cabin crew entered the cockpit and took control. They also said it was not linked to any mental health issue. Earlier, prime minister’s office spokesperson Doron Spielman said it was not a hijacking but a “different incident.”

Flight Tracking Data and Passenger Accounts

Flight-tracking data shows a general emergency signal, then a possible unlawful interference signal, and a drop of nearly 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds. It is unclear who sent the signals.

Injured Pilots and Witness Claims

Tabuk airport said both pilots were hospitalized. Yasmin Abukasis said her daughter Miriam, a passenger, saw a man with a knife force a pilot to the floor, with blood everywhere.

Israel’s Response and Conflicting Reports

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cleared his schedule, and security consultations were held. His office says the situation is under control and that Israelis will be brought home. Israeli media reports conflict on the pilots’ nationalities and on a possible suicide attempt. The UAE has not commented.