The investigation into the Flydubai flight incident that nearly ended in disaster earlier this week continued to expand on Friday as senior officials from the United Arab Emirates and Israel released new statements about the case.
Anwar Gargash, a senior adviser to UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, described the event as an “act of terrorism.” His remarks marked the first time a high-ranking Emirati official publicly characterized the incident in those terms.
Gargash praised Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who was operating the flight when the incident unfolded. According to reports, Machchhar was stabbed several times by his Omani copilot during an alleged attempt to seize control of the aircraft.
Despite his injuries, the captain managed to open the cockpit door. This allowed several passengers to enter and help stop the attack. One passenger reportedly helped stabilize the aircraft while off-duty pilots traveling on the flight assisted with emergency procedures.
The aircraft later made a safe emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
In a public statement, Gargash said the captain showed exceptional courage while confronting what he described as a dangerous and potentially catastrophic terrorist act.
He also urged the public to avoid speculation and conspiracy theories while investigators continue their work. Gargash said vigilance remains important when dealing with threats linked to extremism and terrorism.
The incident involved a Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Authorities are still working to determine the exact motive behind the alleged attack and whether anyone else may have been involved.
At the same time, diplomatic tensions emerged over the handling of the incident.
A source close to the Emirati government said officials in Abu Dhabi believe some Israeli leaders are using the event for political purposes. The source criticized the description of flights carrying Israelis from the UAE as “rescue flights.”
According to the source, that language creates the impression that the UAE is experiencing a security crisis or armed conflict. Emirati officials rejected that characterization and stressed that the country remains safe and stable.
The source also questioned Israel’s decision to halt Flydubai services while another UAE carrier, Etihad Airways, continues operating flights under enhanced security procedures.
According to the source, Emirati authorities are cooperating fully with investigations and have been willing to adopt additional safety measures to restore normal operations.
The comments reflected growing frustration among some UAE officials who believe efforts are being made to resolve the issue while flight restrictions remain in place.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also addressed the incident on Friday.
In a video statement, Netanyahu praised the passengers who helped stop the alleged attack and said they had prevented what could have become a major aviation disaster.
He specifically referred to Yaniv Hayun and others who intervened during the struggle inside the cockpit area.
Netanyahu said evidence collected so far suggests the suspect underwent Islamist radicalization before the incident. He stated that investigators are examining whether the individual acted alone or received support from others.
The prime minister said authorities are still working to determine whether any outside organization or foreign actor may have been connected to the alleged attack.
He emphasized that conclusions have not yet been reached and that the investigation remains active.
Israeli officials are expected to participate in the broader inquiry being led by the UAE. Investigators from both countries are examining the suspect’s background, motives, communications, and activities before the flight.
Officials are also reviewing whether there were warning signs that may have been missed.
Questions have been raised about possible international connections, though authorities have stressed that no final findings have been announced.
Meanwhile, reports indicated that Israeli investigators may directly question the Omani copilot as part of the ongoing investigation.
The case has drawn global attention because of the serious threat posed to passengers and crew. Aviation experts say the event highlights the importance of cockpit security and rapid emergency responses during in-flight crises.
The successful intervention by crew members, passengers, and off-duty pilots is widely credited with preventing a far more serious outcome.
While investigators continue gathering evidence, officials in both the UAE and Israel have stressed the importance of establishing the facts before reaching conclusions.
The Flydubai Terror Attack investigation remains ongoing, with authorities seeking answers about the motive behind the alleged plot and whether the suspect acted independently or with assistance from others.
