(CNN) — Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the UAE’s President, took to social media platform X on Wednesday to comment on an alarming incident involving a FlyDubai flight. The aircraft, en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv, was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia amidst reports of a potential hijacking.
UAE’s Commitment to Tolerance
In his statement, Gargash asserted, “The UAE will remain a beacon of tolerance and a bulwark against extremism and terrorism, a force that brings about positive change in the region.”
Details of the Incident
The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) reported on Wednesday that FlyDubai flight FZ1073, scheduled to fly from Dubai International Airport to Ben Gurion International Airport, experienced a security incident on September 30, 2026. The situation necessitated a diversion to Taba Airport in Saudi Arabia, where the aircraft safely landed.
Injuries and Immediate Response
The GCAA confirmed that some crew members sustained injuries during the incident and were promptly transported to a hospital in Saudi Arabia for necessary care. The authority emphasised that the safety and security of passengers and crew members are of utmost priority.
Investigation Underway
The GCAA stated that its investigative teams are working in coordination with relevant authorities to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the incident. This includes a thorough review of operational and security aspects.
Comments from Israeli Leadership
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on the incident, stating that one of the pilots had reportedly stabbed a fellow crew member and attempted to destroy the aircraft, which predominantly carried Israeli passengers.
The Growing Popularity of Dubai
It is noteworthy that Dubai has become one of the most popular international destinations for Israelis in recent years, largely due to the normalisation of relations between Israel and the UAE under the Abraham Accords in 2020.