Tel Aviv-bound flight makes emergency landing after possible stabbing in cockpit

A Flydubai Boeing 737 MAX flight bound for Tel Aviv was forced to make an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following a violent incident involving its flight crew. Public flight tracking data showed the aircraft experienced erratic altitude changes and issued a distress signal, initially prompting concerns of a hijacking. Israeli fighter jets were scrambled after communications with the cockpit were lost, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu coordinated with military officials as the situation unfolded.

Witnesses reported a physical altercation involving passengers who intervened to neutralize an attacker during the flight. Reports indicate that at least one pilot sustained stab wounds during the struggle. Approximately 180 Israeli passengers were on board the aircraft during the flight. While the situation is now reported to be under control, both pilots were subsequently transported to a hospital in Tabuk for medical treatment. Authorities are investigating the possibility that the incident was a deliberate act of terrorism, as Flydubai has arranged for a relief flight to transport the stranded passengers.