An Omani co-pilot involved in an assault aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv is facing scrutiny after Israeli media reported alleged anti-Jewish content on his social media accounts.
According to The Times of Israel, the co-pilot’s online activity indicated an extremist “jihadist” outlook, including discussions about killing Jews. Israeli officials were quoted as saying he appeared prepared to die, though his exact motive cannot be confirmed until the investigation is completed.
The report suggested investigators suspect he may have attempted to bring down the aircraft as part of a suicide plan. It added that the intent will be determined only after questioning and review of evidence.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview, said the attacker appeared radicalised and had shouted at cabin crew to “kill me,” indicating suicidal intent. Separately, a reporter from i24NEWS said the co-pilot’s belongings included pamphlets linked to “Free Palestine” groups and other pro-Palestinian material, and that he had repeatedly expressed support for Palestinians and hostility toward Jews.
