Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his two sons.
Netanyahu made the allegation during a phone interview with Israel’s Channel 14 on Monday. However, he did not disclose which of his sons was allegedly targeted or provide details about the reported incident.
“Something incredible happened: Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to kill one of my sons,” Netanyahu said during the interview.
The claim emerged while Netanyahu was discussing security arrangements for Gadi Eisenkot, a former Israeli army chief and political rival who is preparing to contest the October 27 election.
Reports had indicated that Israel’s domestic security agency, Shin Bet, declined to provide Eisenkot with a security detail.
Netanyahu backed calls for round-the-clock protection for Eisenkot, stressing that such security measures were necessary rather than optional.
“Without that, (the Iranians) will succeed,” he said.
Netanyahu’s Sons and Security Concerns
Netanyahu has two sons and a daughter. His elder son, Yair Netanyahu, 35, has spent extended periods in Miami since early 2024.
Yair has reportedly received protection from Shin Bet while staying in the United States. His security arrangements have sparked controversy in Israel, particularly over the cost to taxpayers.
Some residents in south Florida have also raised concerns that Yair’s presence could increase the risk of the area being targeted by Israel’s enemies.
Netanyahu did not identify the son involved in the alleged Iranian assassination attempt.
Israeli Journalist Says Claim Was Known Earlier
Following Netanyahu’s remarks, prominent Israeli journalist Amit Segal said the alleged assassination attempt had been known for months.
According to Segal, the matter had been subject to a gag order, preventing public discussion of the alleged incident.
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The latest claim comes amid heightened security concerns in Israel and a closely watched political contest ahead of the country’s October 27 election.
Netanyahu’s comments have added another layer to the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, although no further official details about the alleged targeting of his son were immediately provided.
Source: AFP
