World · India Bureau
Israeli PM claims Omani co-pilot behind FlyDubai flight attack trained in extremism
An Omani co-pilot who allegedly attacked Indian captain Smit Mathur with a knife during a FlyDubai flight to Tel Aviv is being investigated for potential hijacking or terrorism. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed the attacker received training in radical ideology.
LSN India ·

Authorities have launched investigations into a mid-air assault aboard a FlyDubai aircraft en route to Israel's capital after the incident raised suspicions of a potential hijacking or terror-related attack. The co-pilot, reportedly from Oman, allegedly attacked Indian Captain Smit Mathur with a knife during the flight. According to eyewitness accounts, the suspect was restrained by crew members and apprehended upon landing, with reports indicating he was on his knees with bound hands. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed the co-pilot had received training aligned with extremist ideologies. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the exact circumstances and motivations behind the attack. The incident has raised renewed security concerns for commercial aviation in the region and prompted heightened scrutiny of crew vetting procedures.