Oman Air had previously barred al-Hammami from flying over concerns about extremist views, but Flydubai hired him without checking with Omani authorities, the Journal reported. He sought employment with airlines serving Israel and requested the Dubai to Tel Aviv route. Flydubai, which has nearly doubled its staff since the pandemic, has suspended Tel Aviv service until further notice while the investigation continues.
Authorities in Abu Dhabi intend to seek the maximum punishment, potentially including the death penalty, Ynet reported, citing a senior Emirati source. Shin Bet interrogators have joined the questioning in the UAE. Israeli investigators believe al-Hammami likely acted alone, though other possibilities remain under investigation, CBS News reported. President Donald Trump has blamed Iran, while Vice President JD Vance said on October 5, “I haven’t seen anything conclusive yet on an Iranian role in the Flydubai incident.”