Saudi Arabia Transfers Flydubai Co-Pilot to UAE Amid Iran Links

Saudi Arabia’s Interior Ministry said on Thursday, October 1, 2026, that the flydubai co-pilot suspected of attempting to crash a flight bound for Israel has been transferred from Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

According to the ministry, both the co-pilot and the captain were released after receiving medical clearance. They later travelled to Abu Dhabi accompanied by Emirati security personnel.

Initial findings indicate that the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain during the flight, raising concerns about a possible attempt to take control of the aircraft.

The incident has also drawn attention from the United States. President Donald Trump suggested that Iran could potentially be connected to the incident. When reporters at the White House asked about a possible link between the co-pilot and Tehran, Trump said the matter was still under investigation but indicated that the information he had received pointed toward a possible connection.

Trump further warned that the United States would respond strongly if Iran were found to be responsible for the attack.

Investigators are continuing to examine the incident, including the co-pilot’s actions, possible motives and whether any external organisation or government was involved.