Shin Bet Warned on UAE Flight Security as Hijacking Plot Investigated
Shin Bet warned for months about UAE flight security. Authorities are investigating a suspected hijacking attempt after a dispute between security agencies and airlines.
The head of the Shin Bet warned for months that the security envelope provided on flights from the UAE was insufficient, according to reports. In recent weeks, a major dispute took place between the Shin Bet and Israeli airlines regarding a ban imposed by the agency on flights from the UAE due to security considerations.
Meanwhile, Israeli authorities are investigating whether the co-pilot intended to hijack the plane while flying over Jordan and crash it inside Israeli territory. The investigation is ongoing and the direction is not yet final, but it is being examined by the relevant authorities.
The Shin Bet is responsible for security on Israeli flights, while the Mossad handles threats on foreign carriers. Although there was intelligence regarding a dramatic rise in terror alerts, the primary concerns focused on missile fire or airport attacks. A scenario like the one that occurred was not raised in any discussions.
Last July, the Shin Bet notified Israeli airlines of a ban on landing in Dubai until late October due to security tensions in the Middle East and fears of an escalation with Iran.
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