Netanyahu says it's too early to determine motive in FlyDubai cockpit stabbing incident
Key Points:
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the motive behind the co-pilot stabbing the captain on a FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv remains unknown, with initial speculation suggesting a possible suicide attempt rather than hijacking.
- The co-pilot, an Omani citizen, allegedly tried to jam cockpit equipment and was subdued by passengers and crew after stabbing the captain; the plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
- Netanyahu revealed that the co-pilot had undergone "Islamist radical indoctrination" according to personal information gathered during questioning, but emphasized the attacker appeared suicidal and shouted "Kill me, kill me!" after being subdued.
- Israeli and UAE officials are coordinating the investigation, with the co-pilot currently being interrogated in Saudi Arabia and expected to be transferred to Dubai for further questioning.
- Authorities are considering various motives, including terrorism and mental health issues, but no definitive cause has been established, and FlyDubai has urged against premature speculation.