Trump Warns Iran Will Be ‘Hit Very Hard’ If Linked To Flydubai Attack; Passengers Subdue Alleged Co-Pilot

US President Donald Trump warned on Thursday that Iran would be "hit very hard" if investigators determine it was involved in an alleged attack by a co-pilot aboard a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The flight made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after passengers and crew subdued the co-pilot, and most Israeli passengers were later flown home.

What Happened On Board

According to officials and passenger accounts, the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain during the flight and attempted to crash the aircraft. Passengers rushed the cockpit and helped restrain the suspect after the plane plunged roughly 17,000 feet in about a minute, flight-tracking site Flightradar24 reported. The aircraft later landed safely in Saudi Arabia, and an on-duty flydubai crew traveling on the flight was credited with landing the plane.

Investigations And Official Statements

The United Arab Emirates has opened an investigation to determine whether the incident involved terrorism, with Israel participating in the probe. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said investigators believe the co-pilot underwent "Islamist radical indoctrination" and described the attacker as "clearly suicidal," quoting reports that the suspect shouted, "Kill me, kill me" to the aircrew. UAE prosecutors said they would examine whether there was "terrorist activity or intent."

Security And Regional Response

President Trump, when asked whether Iran was involved, said:

"I would say the answer, based on what I'm hearing, is yes but we're working on it right now."

When pressed on possible US retaliation, he warned:

"Oh, they'll be hit very hard, don't worry."

His comments came as US forces bolstered regional defenses: Axios reported additional Patriot missile batteries were sent to Saudi Arabia and Qatar and that the USS Theodore Roosevelt strike group was headed toward the Middle East to join other carrier groups.

People Involved And Reactions

Israeli officials identified the co-pilot as an Omani national. The captain, named by Israeli officials as Smit Machchhar from India, was praised for his bravery and was reported to be recovering after treatment. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him a "hero," and the Indian ambassador to the UAE visited the wounded captain. Flydubai said it suspended flights to Israel while inquiries continue. Israeli President Isaac Herzog said five Israelis who helped overpower the co-pilot would be honored.

Ongoing Uncertainty

Authorities continue to investigate motive and affiliations. While some Israeli officials have described the event as an "attempted terrorist attack," Prime Minister Netanyahu and others have not ruled out mental health or other explanations pending forensic and intelligence findings. The UAE will lead the formal investigation with Israeli participation, and international authorities are monitoring developments.

Note: Facts and statements are based on initial official accounts and media reports; investigations are ongoing and conclusions could change as authorities publish findings.