A source close to the UAE government told Ynet that "Israel is exploiting the attack for political purposes and delaying the return of Fly Dubai flights. The elections are driving the event, not logic." He added: "They're talking about 'rescue flights,' as if there's a war in the country. The Emiratis are willing to tighten procedures and inspect crews, but Israel is the one stopping the flights. If you can put passengers on an Arkia flight, why not on Fly Dubai?" he asked. The source acknowledged that "clearly there was a malfunction," but claimed that Israel doesn't understand the significance of the harm to the Emirates.