Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says investigators are examining whether Iran had any connection to the attempted attack aboard a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv.
Netanyahu said it was too early to determine the motive or establish whether the suspected attacker had accomplices or links to Iran. He said Israel would follow the investigation and could participate in the probe.
The incident occurred aboard Flight FZ1073, traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Israeli officials say the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain before the aircraft went into a steep descent.
Passengers and crew intervened after the cockpit door was opened, helping restrain the suspected attacker and allowing the aircraft to be stabilised. The plane was diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
All 174 passengers were eventually brought safely to Israel on another flight, while the injured pilots received medical treatment.
Israeli officials are investigating whether the incident was an attempted terror attack, but authorities have not established a motive. Flydubai has also urged against speculation while the investigation continues.
The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions and renewed Israeli concerns about aviation security. Israel has since announced plans to strengthen security checks on pilots flying into the country.
For now, investigators are focusing on the attacker, his possible motives and whether anyone else was involved.3
