Netanyahu: the suspect in the Flydubai flight case may have been radicalized. The investigation is examining possible links to Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that the Omani citizen suspected of attempting to crash a Flydubai aircraft had undergone a process of Islamist radicalization. Netanyahu said investigators could determine within days whether he had links to Iran, but stressed that there is still no definitive conclusion regarding the motive for the attack or any potential accomplices.

The incident occurred Wednesday aboard flight FZ1073, which was operating the Dubai–Tel Aviv route and carrying Israeli passengers. According to the information available, the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the pilot in an apparent attempt to crash the aircraft. The plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, and the suspect was detained.

The United Arab Emirates has opened an investigation into possible terrorist activity. All hypotheses are being examined, including a possible mental disorder, advance planning or coordination with other people. Saudi Arabia is leading the initial investigation, with the participation of officials from Israel, the United States, the United Arab Emirates and Oman.

Netanyahu also acknowledged a security lapse, since a citizen of a country without diplomatic relations with Israel was able to serve as a crew member on a flight to the country. Israeli authorities are working to review procedures for vetting pilots.