UAE presidential adviser Gargash calls attempted flydubai plane hijacking a terrorist act — Jerusalem Post

UAE presidential diplomatic adviser Anwar Gargash called the attempted hijacking of a flydubai plane flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv a dangerous terrorist act. According to the Jerusalem Post, after the incident the plane landed in Saudi Arabia, and the passengers were later transported to Ben Gurion Airport in Israel.

Anwar Gargash’s statement

In a post on X, Gargash noted the actions of the plane’s commander, Indian captain Smith Machchhar. According to the publication, the pilot resisted his Omani co-pilot and helped passengers enter the cockpit.

The UAE presidential adviser stated that Machchhar demonstrated courage and responsibility amid the threat of a potential catastrophe. Gargash also called for vigilance regarding possible manifestations of extremism and terrorism and warned against spreading conspiracy theories surrounding the incident.

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Incident details

As reported by the Jerusalem Post, the Omani co-pilot stabbed the commander and attempted to send the plane into a crash. The publication notes that up to four passengers injured and restrained him, after which other crew members were able to land the plane in Saudi Arabia.

On Tuesday evening, 174 Israeli passengers from the flight returned to Israel. According to the Jerusalem Post, Machchhar sustained multiple stab wounds and was in critical condition.