Trump's Statement on Airplane Attack and Iran Connection
US President Donald Trump stated that Iran might be behind the knife attack on the Indian pilot during a flydubai flight and warned of a harsh response if found to be true.
Following an Omani co-pilot's attempted knife attack on Indian captain Smit Machchhar aboard a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, US President Donald Trump stated that they have received intelligence regarding an Iranian connection as investigations continue.
Danger During Flight
During the flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, an Omani co-pilot attempted a knife attack on Indian captain Smit Machchhar in an effort to bring down the plane.
Neutralized with the help of passengers and the captain, the aircraft was subsequently landed safely in Saudi Arabia by reserve pilots.
Trump's Iran Claim
Responding to questions about whether there was a connection between the flydubai attack and Iran, US President Donald Trump said that based on incoming intelligence, the answer could be yes.
Stating that examinations are ongoing, Trump emphasized that they would respond very harshly if it is proven that Iran is responsible.
Netanyahu's Assessments
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated in an interview that it was still too early to say whether the co-pilot was linked to Iran or anyone else.
Netanyahu conveyed that within a few days it would become clear whether such connections existed, and noted they know the attacker went through a process of Islamist radicalization.
Official Investigation Process
While investigations conducted by authorities into the incident continue, there is not yet official evidence of Iran's direct involvement in the attack.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar confirmed that the attacker was an Omani citizen, but stated that his identity has not yet been publicly disclosed.