The Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) is actively participating in the interrogation of Hamam al-Hammami, the Omani co-pilot accused of attempting to hijack a Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai flight on September 30, according to The Zioneer. Israeli investigators are still working to determine whether al-Hammami acted as a lone wolf, was affiliated with an organization, or was directed by Iran.
Shin Bet investigators are now actively participating in the interrogation of Hamam al-Hammami in the United Arab Emirates, Israeli and international sources reported late Monday. The investigation is working to determine whether the Omani co-pilot acted as a lone wolf, was affiliated with a terror organization, or was directed by Iran, according to The Jerusalem Post.
The suspect first confessed on Sunday that he planned to crash the Flydubai Boeing 737 into the main terminal at Ben Gurion Airport. He told investigators he deliberately delayed attacking the captain until the aircraft was over Jordan to avoid early interception. The Zioneer reported the confession at 20:04 Jerusalem on Sunday. On Monday, al-Hammami told interrogators he acted out of revenge for Gaza, and The Zioneer reported at 20:15 Jerusalem that the Shin Bet had opened an investigation. By 21:01 Jerusalem on Monday, The Zioneer reported that Shin Bet interrogators had flown to the UAE to take part in the questioning, and they are now actively involved.
Earlier reporting by The Zioneer detailed digital evidence from al-Hammami's deleted social media accounts showing al-Qaeda leaders and surveillance footage of Israeli aircraft. He had been dismissed from Oman Air and Royal Air Maroc after extremist materials were found in his possession. The investigation has also expanded to include his prior flights to Israel and a period of study in Australia.
No timeline has been given for the conclusion of the interrogation or for a final determination on al-Hammami's affiliations. The Zioneer will continue to follow official updates.
11 developments
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- DevelopingBen-Gvir: Israel Should Seek Extradition of Flydubai Co-Pilot
- StrongFlydubai passengers tell New York Post: crew asked us to release terrorist co-pilot
- StrongForeign reports claim Iran-Pakistan link in Flydubai hijacking attempt
Source and signal
- Open-source intake