Trump: 'Based on what I'm hearing,' Iran may be linked to FlyDubai copilot

U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that Iran may be connected to a FlyDubai co-pilot who attempted to crash an Israel-bound aircraft, warning that Tehran would face heavy retaliation if involved.

Speaking to reporters at the White House on Thursday, the president was asked if he had received briefings regarding potential ties between the pilot and the Iranian government.

“We're working on it right now,” Trump responded.


Also read: US Supreme Court to hear clash over Trump's immigration detention policy

“I would say the answer, based on what I'm hearing, is yes, but we're working on it right now,” he added, without elaborating further or offering specific evidence.

When questioned on whether the United States would take retaliatory action against Tehran if a link is confirmed, Trump delivered a stark warning.

“Oh they'll be hit, very hard, don't worry,” Trump stated.

“You just ask them,” he added. “They know what happened. They'll be hit very hard.”

Also read: US raises select immigration fees for FY 2027, new charges from October 16

Earlier in the day, Iran denied the claims

Iran's government dismissed allegations linking Tehran to an alleged plot targeting a UK airbase as baseless and subsequently summoned the British ambassador in Tehran, state media reported Thursday.

The diplomatic spat follows statements from British Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Wednesday, who stated that the UK possessed "strong indications" pointing to Iranian involvement in the alleged plot against the facility, which is utilized by American forces for military operations targeting Iran.

What happened?

The FlyDubai flight had departed Dubai for Tel Aviv with around 180 people on board. According to flight-tracking data cited by ET, the Boeing 737 MAX 8 began a rapid descent from cruising altitude before transmitting emergency and unlawful-interference codes. The captain, who was injured in the cockpit attack, managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to restrain the co-pilot. The accused co-pilot has been identified as an Omani national, while his identity, background and motive remain under investigation.

(This is a developing story)