I wanted to die as a martyr

A Flydubai co-pilot has confessed to attempting to crash the aircraft during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, citing revenge against Gaza and a desire to die as a martyr, according to Israeli media reports. The pilot, identified as Hamam Al-Hammami, a 29-year-old Omani national, reportedly told authorities in the United Arab Emirates during his interrogation that he wanted to “avenge Gaza” and “die as a martyr.” The incident occurred on September 30, 2026, aboard flight FZ1073, which was en route to Israel. Al-Hammami allegedly attacked the flight captain, Smit Machchhar, with an axe before trying to take control of the aircraft. According to reports, he intended to steer the plane toward Tel Aviv’s Ben-Gurion Airport using standard approach and landing procedures before crashing it, with over 180 passengers onboard. Israeli media, including Channel 12, cited sources close to a multinational investigation indicating that Al-Hammami had been preparing the attack for several months and had previously traveled to Israel to gather intelligence. Authorities in both Israel and the UAE are investigating whether Al-Hammami acted alone or was part of a larger network. Israeli officials have stated that they are examining whether he was recruited or manipulated by an organization or individual. During a meeting of the Israeli Security Cabinet, a representative of the Mossad shared findings with ministers, revealing that the suspect had visited several countries hostile to Israel in recent years. These included states considered adversaries, though the visits were brief. The official noted that investigators are assessing whether he was influenced, recruited, or otherwise connected to an external group during these trips. The UAE is leading the investigation, supported by security agencies from Israel, the United States, and other Western nations. The country's prosecutor general, Hamad Saif al-Shamsi, confirmed that the co-pilot attempted a terrorist act by attacking the captain and seeking to seize control of the aircraft. He emphasized that the incident constitutes a serious threat to aviation safety. Following the incident, Emirati authorities interviewed all members of the flight crew. According to reports, there is currently no evidence suggesting that any of the cabin staff were involved or attempted to assist Al-Hammami. However, some sources indicate that the crew expressed confusion and disorientation during the crisis, although they did not participate in the alleged plot. Al-Hammami, who was employed by Flydubai based in the UAE, had previously been removed from his position with Oman’s national airline due to concerns regarding his extreme views. After being hired by Flydubai, he continued to work in the company until the incident. His employment history highlights potential risks associated with hiring individuals with controversial backgrounds, especially in roles involving passenger safety. Investigators now have access to the contents of Al-Hammami’s mobile phone, which could provide further insights into his motivations and possible connections. The ongoing inquiry aims to determine whether he received external guidance or support. As the investigation progresses, international cooperation remains crucial in addressing the broader implications of such acts, particularly given the geopolitical tensions in the region.