Anwar Gargash, a senior adviser to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, on Friday described the cockpit attack aboard a Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai flight as a "dangerous terrorist act". The remarks mark the first time a top Emirati official has formally characterised the incident in such terms.

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Gargash Hails Indian Pilot's Bravery

In a post on X, Gargash praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his decisive bravery in thwarting what could have been a catastrophic tragedy.

"The Indian pilot at Flydubai, Smit Machchhar, deserves all the appreciation, as he embodied the true meaning of courage and responsibility when confronting a dangerous terrorist act and a potential disaster," Gargash said, adding, "His professionalism and moral sense in the darkest circumstances make him a true hero".

A Caution Against Conspiracy Theories

Gargash also cautioned against speculation surrounding the incident while emphasising the necessity for continued vigilance and readiness across the region.

"Far from oversimplifying what happened or adopting and promoting conspiracy theories, vigilance and caution remain necessary to face the risks of extremism and terrorism," he noted.

The UAE had previously ordered a formal investigation into the incident. Investigators are probing the circumstances and motives behind the attack, including whether it was linked to "any terrorist activity or purpose" and whether it involved "prior planning or direction".

Flydubai Flight Incident

Gargash's remarks come after Flydubai flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, was forced to divert to Saudi Arabia following an altercation in the cockpit.

According to Saudi authorities, the Omani co-pilot allegedly stabbed Captain Machchhar in an attempt to bring down the plane, triggering a steep descent in which the aircraft plunged nearly 16,000 feet in seconds.

Covered in blood, Captain Machchhar used "the last moments of his energy" to hit the cockpit door release, enabling flight crew members and passengers to overpower the attacker. A secondary pair of off-duty Flydubai pilots travelling on board then took control of the aircraft, landing safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

Omani Co-Pilot Expressed Support For Palestinians

According to an i24 News correspondent citing an Emirati source, authorities recovered leaflets and publications from "Free Palestine" groups alongside pro-Palestinian materials among the co-pilot's belongings. The source noted that the pilot had repeatedly expressed hostility toward Israel and support for the Palestinians.

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Meanwhile, The Jerusalem Post reported that the Omani co-pilot held only Omani nationality, raising questions regarding how a citizen from a nation without formal diplomatic relations with Israel was cleared to fly the route.

(With Inputs From ANI)

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