World · India Bureau
Israel vows harsh penalties after alleged hijacking attempt on Dubai flight
A flight from Dubai to Israel was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after a hijacking code was transmitted during an alleged dispute between two pilots. Israeli officials have promised severe punishment for those responsible.
LSN India ·
Flight FZ1073, operating between Dubai and Israel, diverted to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia following the transmission of a hijacking alert code on Wednesday. The incident reportedly stemmed from a dispute between two pilots aboard the aircraft, prompting emergency protocols and the emergency landing.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich responded to the incident with a stark warning, stating that those found responsible would face severe legal consequences. "Whoever is behind this will be treated as a murderer and punished accordingly," Smotrich said, underscoring the gravity with which Israeli authorities are treating the matter.
The aircraft landed safely at Tabuk Airport with all passengers and crew unharmed. The emergency diversion and subsequent investigation mark a significant security incident for regional aviation. Authorities from multiple countries are expected to coordinate the investigation into the circumstances that led to the transmission of the hijacking code and the dispute between the flight crew members.