Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken publicly about a recent cockpit attack on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The incident occurred on a FlyDubai plane, which was carrying over 100 passengers, including 30 children. Netanyahu praised the actions of Yaniv Chayon, a passenger who broke into the cockpit and helped to subdue the alleged attacker.
According to Netanyahu, the co-pilot on the flight had allegedly stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the plane. However, the wounded captain was able to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers to intervene and stabilize the aircraft. The plane was diverted to Saudi Arabia, where it made an emergency landing.
Netanyahu met with Chayon earlier on Wednesday and praised his actions, saying that he had shown "unbelievable courage" in taking control of the plane under "impossible" circumstances. The prime minister also expressed his gratitude to the passengers who had helped to prevent a disaster.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of air travel, particularly in light of the recent increase in violent incidents on planes. Netanyahu blamed "hatred" for the attack, saying that it was rooted in antisemitism and that many people had "fallen prey" to propaganda that vilifies Israel.
The co-pilot on the flight has been identified as an Omani national, and the motive for the attack remains unknown. FlyDubai has suspended all flights in and out of Israel while the investigation is carried out.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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