Israel Reveals Aircrews From Hostile States Entered Country Amid Security Probe
Knesset data reveals 1,240 aircrew from nations without ties to Israel entered the country this year, following an attempted cockpit takeover on a Flydubai flight.
Data revealed at the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee's Subcommittee on Intelligence shows that 1,240 aircrew members from countries without diplomatic relations with Israel have entered the country since the beginning of the year.
The figures, presented during a session chaired by MK Boaz Bismuth, include pilots and co-pilots from nations such as Syria, Lebanon, and Oman. The subcommittee examined security oversight and background checks for incoming flight crews.
MK Bismuth stated that civil aviation protocols in Israel will change following the discussion, which also focused on the Flydubai flight incident and security preparedness. Bismuth demanded that all relevant authorities complete internal reviews and provide clear answers.
The session followed an attempted attack aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Israel, where the co-pilot assaulted the captain in the cockpit and attempted to crash the aircraft. Indian captain Smith Machachard fought off the attacker, while Israeli passengers intervened to subdue the suspect.
An investigation is underway in the UAE, with Shin Bet personnel participating on-site to examine the co-pilot's background, motives, and potential ties to extremist elements.
