Washington, Oct 3: US President Donald Trump warned that Iran would face a strong response if investigators establish that Tehran was linked to the co-pilot accused of attacking the captain of a Flydubai flight bound for Israel.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said US authorities were examining possible links between the co-pilot and Iran. When asked whether Washington would retaliate if Tehran was found to be behind the incident, Trump said Iran would be “hit very hard.”
Trump did not provide details or evidence supporting the suspected Iranian connection, saying the investigation was still underway.
The incident occurred aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, carrying 182 people from the UAE to Tel Aviv. The Omani co-pilot allegedly stabbed Indian captain Smit Machchhar in the cockpit, causing the aircraft to make a steep and erratic descent.
Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene and overpower the co-pilot. The aircraft was eventually diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where the suspect was taken into custody.
A regional official said authorities were investigating multiple possible motives, including terrorism, and that no scenario had been ruled out. The official also said investigators from several countries, including Israel, the UAE, the US and Oman, were involved.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed the suspect had undergone Islamist indoctrination but did not provide details or evidence for the claim. He also said it was too early to determine whether Iran was involved.
The UAE has launched its own investigation to determine whether the attack had any terrorist motive. Israeli officials have also sought involvement in questioning the suspect.
Meanwhile, Captain Machchhar is recovering in Abu Dhabi after receiving initial treatment in Saudi Arabia. Indian officials have said he is recovering well.
According to flight-tracking data, emergency codes 7700 and 7500 were transmitted during the incident. The codes indicate a general emergency and unlawful interference, respectively.
The aircraft, a Boeing 737 MAX 8, reportedly descended from around 33,000 feet to 17,000 feet in approximately one minute before making an erratic turn near the Jordan-Saudi border and landing safely in Tabuk.
Investigators are continuing to establish the motive behind the cockpit attack and determine whether there was any external involvement.
