FlyDubai hijacking turns into flashpoint in Israeli election

A failed hijacking attempt involving a FlyDubai co-pilot has become a political flashpoint in Israel ahead of the Oct. 27 election, with new details raising questions about aviation security and foreign aircrew screening. The incident centered on Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, involving an attempted hijacker identified as Hamam al-Hammami, 29, an Omani citizen. Because Oman has no diplomatic relations with Israel, opposition leaders and commentators have drawn parallels to the Hamas attack of Oct. 7, 2023, a major security failure. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a review of security aspects of foreign civil aviation after revelations. Polls suggest the opposition bloc has slid slightly, complicating likely electoral impact.