Press TV, citing an unnamed regional source, alleges Netanyahu planned to use an aircraft incident to draw the US into renewed conflict with Iran.
Web Desk: Iranian state-run Press TV has reported an allegation that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu planned a “false flag” aircraft hijacking operation in an effort to draw the United States into renewed conflict with Iran.
The report, published by Press TV and cited by Anadolu Agency and The Express Tribune, relies on an unnamed source described as a “well-informed regional source.” The source alleged that an incident involving a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was connected to the purported plan.
There is currently no independent evidence establishing that such a plan existed. Press TV did not identify its source or provide evidence supporting the allegation. Israel, the United Arab Emirates and the United States had not immediately commented on the claim.
Alleged Plan Linked to Flydubai Incident
According to the report, the alleged operation was discussed and finalised during a purported secret visit by Netanyahu to the United Arab Emirates three days before the Flydubai incident.
The unnamed source further alleged that senior military and intelligence officials accompanied Netanyahu and that discussions with officials from several Arab countries involved an operation that could later be attributed to Iran.
Press TV said the alleged objective was to encourage US President Donald Trump to enter another conflict with Iran.
What Happened Aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073?
The allegation emerged after a serious incident aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30.
The aircraft transmitted emergency signals before diverting to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities said the captain and first officer were injured and taken to hospital, while all passengers and crew were reported safe. Saudi Arabia’s National Transport Safety Center subsequently opened an investigation.
Reuters later reported that Israeli officials said the co-pilot stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the aircraft. Passengers and crew members intervened, allowing other pilots aboard the aircraft to regain control and land safely in Saudi Arabia.
The motive behind the incident remains subject to investigation.
Official Investigations Underway
Flydubai initially described the event as an “altercation” in the flight deck and said crew members secured the aircraft before it was safely diverted to Saudi Arabia.
The UAE and Saudi Arabia launched investigations into the incident, while Israeli authorities also examined the circumstances surrounding the flight.
Reuters reported that Israeli authorities planned to increase security checks on pilots flying into the country following the incident.
