President Donald Trump has publicly stated that he believes Iran was involved in the foiled attack on a Flydubai flight. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Trump said he personally suspects Tehran’s involvement in the incident involving flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The attack occurred last Wednesday, according to reports, when a co-pilot allegedly used an emergency crash axe to attack the captain inside the cockpit.
Trump previously hinted at Iranian involvement last week, stating that he was "based on what I’m hearing." The White House has not yet responded to a request for comment regarding the President's assertion.
Vice President JD Vance offered a more cautious assessment of the situation. When asked about suspected Iranian involvement, Vance deferred to CIA Director John Ratcliffe. He stated that while the situation is being looked into, he has not seen conclusive evidence. "I wouldn’t say I’ve seen anything conclusive just yet," Vance said.
The incident involved a Boeing Co. (NYSE: BA) 737 MAX 9, which reportedly descended 17,400 feet in less than two minutes. The White House noted that an Israeli passenger helped stabilize the jet after the attack, preventing a potential crash.
Amid rising tensions, Iran’s Security Chief Mohsen Rezaee warned that the country is facing a "most difficult period." This comes as the Rial continues to fall under sanctions and economic restrictions imposed by the U.S. as part of "Operation Economic Outcast." Additionally, data from ship tracker Kpler indicates that oil flow out of the Middle East, including through the Strait of Hormuz, has exceeded pre-war levels.
