Israel PM says Iran tried to kill his son, offers no evidence

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons, but provided no further details or evidence to support the allegation.

Mr. Netanyahu made the statement during a phone interview with Israel’s Channel 14, saying: “Something incredible happened: Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to kill one of my sons.” He did not specify which of his two sons was allegedly targeted, nor when or how the attempt was supposed to have taken place.

The claim came amid a discussion about security arrangements for Gadi Eisenkot, a former army chief and current political rival who is running neck and neck with Mr. Netanyahu ahead of elections scheduled for October 27. Reports have said the Shin Bet domestic security agency declined to provide a permanent security detail for Eisenkot. Mr. Netanyahu expressed support for around-the-clock protection for Eisenkot, calling it “not a luxury” and warning that without it, “the Iranians will succeed.”

The Prime Minister has two sons and a daughter. His elder son, Yair Netanyahu, 35, has spent extended periods in Miami since early 2024, reportedly under Shin Bet protection. Yair’s stay in the United States has drawn controversy in Israel over the cost to taxpayers, while some residents in south Florida have voiced concern that his presence could make the area a target for attacks by Israel’s enemies.

Shortly after Mr. Netanyahu’s remarks became public, prominent Israeli journalist Amit Segal wrote on his Telegram channel that the alleged assassination attempt had been known for “months” but was subject to a gag order. He did not provide further details.

There has been no official confirmation from Israeli security agencies, nor any comment from Iranian authorities. Iran has previously denied involvement in such plots, and the Israeli government has a history of making allegations against Iran that are not always substantiated in public.

The incident, if true, would mark a serious escalation in the long-running shadow conflict between Israel and Iran. Over the years, both nations have accused each other of carrying out assassinations and sabotage operations. In 2024, Israeli officials claimed to have foiled several Iranian attempts to target Israeli citizens abroad, but these claims were not always accompanied by detailed public evidence.

Mr. Netanyahu’s statement is likely to play into the election campaign, where security and Iran policy are central issues. His opponents, including Eisenkot, have accused him of using security issues for political gain. Eisenkot has not yet commented publicly on the Prime Minister’s claim.

The lack of concrete details raises questions about the timing of the announcement, coming just weeks before the election. Critics have pointed out that Mr. Netanyahu has a history of making dramatic security announcements during election periods, while supporters argue that he is simply informing the public about a credible threat.

It remains unclear whether any official investigation or security protocol changes will follow the Prime Minister’s statement. The Shin Bet, which is responsible for protecting Israeli officials and their families, has not issued a response. When asked for clarification, the Prime Minister’s office declined to elaborate, referring to the security nature of the matter.

This is a developing story, and further information may emerge as official bodies respond to the claim. Until then, the public is left with the Prime Minister’s word alone.