An EgyptAir flight which was diverted and forced to land in Cyprus was reportedly hijacked by a man who wanted to deliver a letter to a woman, who may or may not be his ex-wife.

According to the Guardian, the Lebanese hijacker has demanded political asylum and threw a letter from the plane addressed to his ex-wife who lives in Cyprus.

Cyprus president Nikos Anastasiades confirms this motive:

As many as 50 passengers were on board at the time of the hijacking this morning, and all but the crew and four passengers have now been released from the plane.

The hijacker's ex wife, Marina Parashkou, is reportedly being taken to the airport to help with negotiations.