Netanyahu: Pilot on plane landing in Saudi Arabia attempted to crash it after stabbing co-pilot

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video message regarding an incident on a passenger plane that made an emergency landing at Saudi Arabia's Tabuk Airport while en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Describing the events as an extremely serious security incident, Netanyahu stated that almost all passengers on the plane were Israeli citizens. Netanyahu said that as the plane approached Israel, one of the pilots stabbed the other, and the evidence they gathered indicated that the pilot intended to crash the plane with the passengers on board.

Sharing details of the incident, Netanyahu noted that an Israeli passenger he spoke with by phone and a crew member managed to enter the cockpit. Netanyahu stated that the passenger and crew member prevented the pilot from damaging the plane's systems, and subsequently, another crew member who entered the cockpit took control of the plane and stabilized it safely.

Netanyahu expressed his admiration for those who saved many lives with their bravery, stating that they are in constant contact with the relevant authorities to ensure the passengers' safety and secure return home, and they are conducting regular situation assessments. Announcing that the suspect is being interrogated by Saudi authorities, Netanyahu added that he has instructed Israeli security units to take necessary measures to prevent similar attempts in the future.