I'd like to see a reference for this 3 approach 'rule'. In my airline we're strongly advised not to attempt more than 2 approaches to GIB before diverting but that is only company procedure...
I don't mind a bit of informed speculation but as another poster says at this stage with the info we have, it could have been anything. It's hard in these times of 24hr news, but we're just going to have to wait...and in the meantime consider this another example of the potential hazards of LVPs.