Israel Recognizes Flydubai Passengers as Terror Victims After Foiled Plot

Israel's Ministry of Defense officially recognized the passengers of the Flydubai flight as victims of a terrorist act, six weeks after a foiled attempt by an Omani pilot to crash the plane into Ben Gurion Airport. The decision follows official confirmation from security authorities, transferring the case to the National Insurance Institute for victim compensation and support.

The incident occurred aboard a Flydubai flight carrying 174 passengers. The plane was targeted by co-pilot Hammam Al-Hamami, who investigators revealed intended to crash the aircraft. The plot was thwarted thanks to the swift intervention and courage of several passengers and captain Smith Matthew, who subdued the attacker despite the captain sustaining stab wounds.

Investigations later revealed that Al-Hamami had previously flown to Israel twice, underwent radicalization in Australia, and was inspired by the September 11 terrorist attacks. British media reported that he received his professional flight training at the L3 Airline Academy in the United Kingdom.

In recognition of their heroism, President Isaac Herzog awarded medals of valor at a ceremony in his residence. The honors were presented to Yaniv Hayon, Zvika and Tali Mans, Or Pardilov, Asaf Reguwan, and Dr. Shota Mosiyev, who also provided life-saving medical treatment to the wounded chief pilot.