Israeli investigators believe an alleged attempted hijacking on a FlyDubai flight was likely a "lone-wolf" attack, according to sources familiar with the matter. The investigation remains active as authorities explore all leads regarding the incident, which occurred during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Preliminary assessments by Israeli security officials suggest the suspect acted alone, though a final conclusion has not been reached.
During the flight, the co-pilot, identified by sources as Omani citizen Hamam al Hamami, allegedly stabbed the flight captain and attempted to crash the aircraft. Flight tracking data indicated the plane plunged more than 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds while over Saudi Arabia. The captain managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing staff and passengers, including Yaniv Hayun, to overpower the assailant. A reserve crew then assisted in making an emergency landing at Tabuk airport in Saudi Arabia.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the suspect had undergone "radical Islamist indoctrination" and appeared to be "suicidal," noting that he shouted "Kill me, kill me!" after being subdued. Sources told CBS News that al Hamami had previously been monitored by the Omani government for visiting radical websites while employed at Oman Air, leading to his transfer to a desk job before he resigned around 2024. U.S. President Donald Trump suggested on Thursday, October 1, that the co-pilot might have links to Iran, though Israeli officials stated they had not identified such a connection.
The suspect is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a second round of interrogation after initially being questioned by Saudi authorities. The UAE state news agency reported on October 1 that investigations are underway to determine if the act involved prior planning, direction, or terrorist purposes. Both the captain, Smit Machchhar, and the co-pilot were treated at a hospital in Saudi Arabia before being transported to Abu Dhabi on the morning of October 1.
The incident involved at least four nations—the UAE, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Oman—coordinating on a transnational investigation. The event occurred weeks before an Israeli election where security is a campaign issue. The incident also risks escalating regional tensions, following President Trump's public suggestion of Iranian involvement.
Israeli intelligence services Mossad and Shin Bet are continuing their independent probe into the suspect's background and potential external ties. No trial dates or formal charges have been announced.