Ambassador Yossi Shelley, serving in the United Arab Emirates, has asserted that the recent violent incident involving a flydubai flight aimed at Tel Aviv has only reinforced, rather than diminished, the robust diplomatic relations between Israel and the UAE. According to Shelley, the prompt and decisive action taken by Emirati authorities following the attack exemplifies the strength of the partnership fostered under the Abraham Accords.
Positive Reactions from Emirati Officials
In an interview with *The Jerusalem Post*, Shelley revealed that the response from Emirati officials and the local populace post-incident has been overwhelmingly supportive. This follows a harrowing event on September 30, wherein a co-pilot attacked the aircraft’s captain, causing a critical emergency that required collaborative efforts from passengers and crew to regain control. “I definitely feel a warm embrace,” expressed Shelley, acknowledging initial concerns while emphasizing the supportive environment surrounding the incident.
The ambassador further noted that conversations with high-ranking Emirati officials have reassured him of the ongoing strength of relations between Abu Dhabi and Jerusalem. An exemplary moment was when Shelley reached out to a senior Emirati business leader at 1 a.m. regarding the troubling aviation situation, receiving a call back just 10 minutes later—evidence of their commitment to heightened communication and cooperation.
Investigation and Security Considerations
Shelley indicated that a thorough investigation into the flydubai incident is underway, involving various stakeholders, including authorities in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. The co-pilot responsible for the attack has been moved to the UAE for further examination. Emphasizing the importance of understanding if the assailant acted independently or under outside influence, Shelley stated, “We need to determine the motivations behind this action as it has significant implications for our security protocols.”
The incident has sparked discussions about enhancing security measures for flight crews, especially in routes involving politically sensitive regions. Shelley suggested that when assessing and assigning crew, the backgrounds and nationalities of pilots should be carefully considered to prevent potential threats. “We should question not only baggage but also the pilots on specific routes,” he commented, advocating for more stringent screening processes.
Appreciation for Heroism
In recognition of the tremendous bravery displayed during the incident, Shelley extended his gratitude to Captain Smit Machchhar, the injured pilot who remained composed under pressure and ultimately enabled others to intervene. Machchhar, despite being attacked, managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to subdue the assailant before a potential tragedy unfolded. Shelley intends to officially thank Machchhar and emphasized the importance of recognizing all those who aided in averting a disaster.
The Future of the Abraham Accords
When questioned about the potential impact of this incident on the Abraham Accords and the broader Israeli-UAE relationship, Shelley dismissed the notion that the partnership could be fundamentally affected. “It did not succeed in breaking us. We stand strong,” he insisted. Notably, the resumption of Israeli airline operations to the UAE serves as a testament to the enduring strength of this diplomatic alliance. Distancing himself from the narratives of crisis, he reassured that operations would continue as planned, emphasizing that ongoing cooperation between the two countries remains intact.
In conclusion, the events surrounding the flydubai flight may have presented immediate challenges, but they have also underscored the resilience and depth of the Israel-UAE relationship, driven by strategic interests and unwavering support.