Netanyahu Hails Plumber Who Stopped Flydubai Hijacking, Vows to Probe Iran Links
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised passenger Yaniv Hayun, a plumber, for subduing a co-pilot who attempted to crash a Flydubai flight to Tel Aviv. The incident, which Netanyahu compared to 9/11, resulted in an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after the plane plunged 17,000 feet. Netanyahu vowed to investigate whether Iran was behind the attack, which involved the stabbing of the Indian captain, Smit Machchhar.
Key points
- Netanyahu met with hero Yaniv Hayun at Ben Gurion Airport, crediting him with preventing a disaster of 'unbelievable proportions.'
- The co-pilot stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar, causing the aircraft to nosedive before passengers intervened.
- Netanyahu stated he would determine if Iran orchestrated the attack, noting the attacker’s apparent hatred of Israelis.
- The flight carried 174 passengers, mostly Israelis, including around 30 children who reported being thrown to the ceiling during the plunge.
- Saudi Arabia and Jordan denied clearance for the plane to land, forcing an emergency stop in Saudi Arabia.
Background
This incident follows heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, including recent threats regarding the Strait of Hormuz and warnings of decisive Israeli responses to Iranian actions. The 9/11 comparison echoes broader efforts to maintain public memory of terrorist attacks, as seen in recent advocacy for 9/11 education initiatives.
Why it matters
The event highlights ongoing security threats to Israeli citizens abroad and the potential involvement of state actors like Iran in terrorist plots. It underscores the critical role of civilian intervention in preventing mass-casualty events and may influence international investigations and diplomatic relations.
What to watch
Israel is expected to participate in the Saudi-led investigation into the attacker’s motives and potential accomplices. Netanyahu has pledged to identify the root cause of the attack, including any Iranian involvement, in the near future.
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on New York Post