Meir Ben-Shabbat Warns of Aviation Security Threats After Hijacking Attempt
Former National Security Adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat, currently leading the Misgav Institute for National Security, recently spoke with Arutz Sheva about the investigation into the attempted terrorist attack on a Flydubai flight to Israel. He expressed concerns that this incident poses significant challenges for aviation security on a global scale.
Ben-Shabbat noted that the investigation appears to be conducted cooperatively, with the United Arab Emirates keen on understanding the motives and methods behind the attack. He emphasized that without a thorough investigation, it would be difficult for the UAE to address the security gaps that allowed the incident to occur.
Drawing parallels to the September 11 attacks, Ben-Shabbat warned that threats to aviation security could originate from within the aircraft's crew rather than from passengers. He explained that it is more challenging to counter threats from individuals who already have legitimate access to the aircraft, such as pilots or maintenance personnel.
He recalled the 2015 bombing of a Russian Metrojet over Egypt, which resulted in the deaths of all 224 passengers. Investigators suspected that the explosive device was planted with the help of someone working at the airport, highlighting the complexities of identifying potential attackers.
To mitigate these threats, Ben-Shabbat called for enhanced intelligence sharing among nations, improved screening processes for aviation personnel, and stronger oversight mechanisms. He acknowledged that while these measures cannot guarantee complete security, they can significantly reduce risks.
Iran's Exploitation of Political Instability
Regarding the Iranian threat, he cautioned that Iran might exploit upcoming election periods in Israel and the United States. He believes that Iran's precarious situation could lead it to take advantage of perceived opportunities, either directly or through its proxies.
Ben-Shabbat also addressed the potential for kidnapping attacks by Hamas, which he described as increasingly desperate due to Israeli military pressure. He stated that Hamas is struggling to stabilize itself under relentless counterterrorism operations by Israel.
He urged Israel to implement heightened security measures and maintain offensive operations throughout Gaza to prevent such attacks. He emphasized that the counterterrorism apparatus must operate continuously and effectively to keep Hamas operatives on the run and focused on survival rather than planning attacks.
Final Assessment
In his analysis, Ben-Shabbat reiterated that security operations should not be hindered by the election cycle. He asserted that Israel cannot afford to pause its military actions against threats from Hezbollah and Hamas, as the security situation remains critical. The urgency of the situation demands that Israel continue its operations without delay, ensuring that its national security is prioritized above political considerations.
In conclusion, Ben-Shabbat's insights underscore the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in the face of evolving threats to aviation security and national safety. His recommendations for increased intelligence sharing and operational continuity reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing the complexities of modern security challenges.
