Netanyahu Probes Iran Link in Flydubai Attack; Praises Indian Pilot
PM Netanyahu says Israel will investigate if Iran was behind the attempted mid-air attack on a flydubai flight and praises Indian pilot's heroism.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has addressed the harrowing attempted attack on an Israel-bound flydubai flight, stating that while it is too early to confirm, Israel will investigate whether Iran was behind the incident. Speaking in a recent interview, the Prime Minister highlighted the extraordinary bravery displayed by the flight crew and passengers, which prevented what he described as a potential "another 9/11."
The Investigation into Iran's Involvement
During his conversation with Fox News, Netanyahu addressed the growing suspicion regarding the motives behind the attack on flydubai Flight FZ1073. While the attacking pilot is currently being investigated in Saudi Arabia and could face trial in the UAE, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel is closely monitoring the situation.
"It's no secret that Iran wants to target Israelis abroad," Netanyahu remarked, noting that Israel has seen clear signs of Iran's proxies, such as Hamas and Hezbollah, seeking to carry out attacks. He added, "Whether or not this was carried out as part of that plan, we don't know yet. We'll get to the root of this attacker, whether he had accomplices, whether Iran was behind it. I think we'll find out very soon."
Heroism in the Cockpit: Captain Machchhar's Bravery
The Prime Minister recounted the terrifying sequence of events that unfolded as the aircraft approached Israel. According to Netanyahu, the incident began when one pilot launched a violent assault on the other, reportedly using an axe or a stabbing motion. The victim, an Indian pilot identified as Captain Smit Machchhar, was left bleeding profusely as the aircraft began a dangerous nosedive.
Despite being critically wounded and fighting for his life, Captain Machchhar performed an act of "unbelievable courage." Netanyahu detailed how the pilot managed to unlock the cockpit door even as the plane went out of control, providing a crucial window for intervention.
A "Plumber" Saves the Day
The chaos inside the cabin led to a spontaneous rescue effort. An Israeli passenger, Yaniv Hayoun, rushed from his seat to the cockpit as the plane swerved. After being knocked down, Hayoun managed to enter the cockpit during a momentary moment of stability. He found the attacker attempting to sabotage the flight instruments.
Netanyahu described the intense struggle:
- Hayoun grabbed the attacker from behind.
- He managed to take control of the pilot's seat and pull the stick back to stabilize the descent.
- Other passengers and crew members helped to restrain the attacker.
- Reserve crew members eventually entered to fully secure the aircraft.
In a touching moment from the interview, Netanyahu shared a conversation he had with Hayoun. When asked about his profession, the hero replied that he was a plumber. Netanyahu quipped, "I said, 'Well, you certainly unclogged a big one this time.'"
The Prime Minister concluded by praising the collective heroism of the Indian pilot, the passengers, and the crew, noting that their quick thinking stopped a disaster that could have had global consequences.