United States President Donald Trump has said he personally believes Iran was responsible for the alleged terrorist attack aboard a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Israel, despite an ongoing investigation into the suspect’s possible links to Tehran or other organisations.
Drivetvnews gathered that Trump made the claim on Monday when Fox News reporter Lucas Fox asked whether he believed Iran was behind the incident. Trump responded that he personally did.
However, the US president did not publicly provide evidence to support his assessment.
The incident occurred on September 30 aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The Omani co-pilot, identified by several international media outlets as Hamam al-Hammami, allegedly attacked the captain inside the cockpit and attempted to take control of the aircraft.
The captain was able to open the cockpit door after the alleged attack, allowing passengers and other crew members to intervene and overpower the co-pilot.
Two off-duty pilots who were passengers on the flight subsequently assisted in regaining control of the aircraft before it made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. More than 170 people were reportedly aboard.
The United Arab Emirates has classified the incident as a terrorist attack and is leading the investigation into the suspect and his possible motives. Authorities in Israel and Saudi Arabia are also involved, while investigators have examined the suspect’s background, including his activities and time spent in Australia and New Zealand.
Despite Trump’s assertion, there is currently no publicly established evidence showing that Iran ordered or supported the incident.
Israeli investigators reportedly believe the suspect may have acted alone, although authorities continue to examine whether he had links to an organisation or foreign government.
US Vice President JD Vance has also indicated that there is no conclusive evidence currently linking Iran to the incident, placing his position at odds with Trump’s personal assessment.
The suspect remains in custody in the UAE as investigators examine his background, ideological views and possible connections.
Authorities are also investigating his previous training and activities outside the Middle East as they seek to determine how the suspect was able to serve as co-pilot on a flight bound for Israel.
The incident has also raised questions about aviation security and the procedures used to vet pilots operating flights into Israel. Investigators are continuing to determine whether the incident was carried out by a lone extremist or involved assistance from an external organisation or government.
