Colombian-Venezuelan national Ali Zaki Hage Jalil, identified as a Hezbollah terrorist, was extradited from Venezuela to Panama on Monday. He is required by Panamanian authorities for his alleged involvement in a 1994 commercial aircraft bombing.
The suspect arrived at Tocumen International Airport in the Panamanian capital under heavy security, including canine and special units. To maintain discretion, authorities utilized an alternate route for his exit from the airport.
The 1994 Attack on Flight 901
Hage Jalil is linked to the explosion of Alas Chiricanas Flight 901, which detonated shortly after taking off from the city of Colón in July 1994. The attack resulted in 21 fatalities, the majority of whom were of Jewish origin.
According to the Panama Prosecutor’s Office, the accused allegedly participated in the planning of the attack, which included obtaining explosive materials using false identities. Another individual, Ali Hawa Jamal, reportedly carried the bomb on board and died during the detonation.
Capture and Legal Breakthrough
The suspect was apprehended on November 6, 2025, on Margarita Island in the state of Nueva Esparta following an international red alert issued by Panama. For years, Panamanian authorities stated the accused remained protected de facto, which delayed his appearance in court.
The extradition was authorized by the Supreme Court of Justice of Venezuela. This decision followed a determination that Hage Jalil’s 2005 naturalization was fraudulent and had been used to evade justice.
International Cooperation and Future Proceedings
The case gained significant momentum in 2017 when Israeli intelligence provided additional information to Panama. Former Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela confirmed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally delivered the relevant materials.
The United States also participated in the investigation for over three decades through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which offered a reward of up to 5 million dollars for information leading to the suspect’s capture. The U.S. Government supported the investigation and provided technical support.
While the legal process will commence in Panama, U.S. Ambassador Kevin Cabrera stated that the United States does not rule out requesting the suspect’s extradition in the future. This is due to the fact that U.S. Citizens were among the victims of the 1994 attack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ali Zaki Hage Jalil?
He is a Colombian-Venezuelan citizen identified as a Hezbollah terrorist who is accused of planning the 1994 bombing of Alas Chiricanas Flight 901.
How was the suspect captured?
He was detained on November 6, 2025, on Margarita Island in Venezuela’s Nueva Esparta state following an international red alert issued by Panama.
Why did the extradition grab over 30 years?
Panamanian authorities indicated the suspect was protected de facto for years, and the Venezuelan Supreme Court only authorized the extradition after finding his 2005 naturalization was fraudulent.
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