Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed on Monday that Iran had attempted to assassinate one of his sons, describing the alleged plot as “unbelievable” while calling for enhanced security for political figures ahead of Israel’s upcoming elections.
Speaking in a telephone interview with Channel 14’s military correspondent Noam Amir, Netanyahu stated: “This is an unbelievable case. Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to murder him, tried to murder one of my sons.”
He did not identify which of his two sons Yair or Avner was the alleged target, nor did he provide details on when the attempt occurred, how it was planned, or how close it came to being carried out. The information had previously been subject to a publication ban.
Netanyahu made the disclosure while discussing security arrangements for his family and other political candidates. He emphasised that protection for his sons is “not a luxury,” warning that without it, such attempts could succeed.
“Iran tried to murder one of my sons. And this is why this promise [I am making] is more than a luxury without it, they could succeed [in killing my son]. People need to show some restraint, especially during an election campaign,” he said.
The Prime Minister added that he had spoken with Shin Bet chief David Zini and requested that appropriate security be provided to any prime ministerial candidate. The comments came amid reports that the domestic security agency had declined protection for a political rival ahead of the October 27 general election.
Netanyahu’s elder son, Yair, has spent extended periods in Miami under security protection, while his younger son, Avner, resides in Israel. Extended security arrangements for the Prime Minister’s wife, Sara, and their sons were approved earlier this year by the Ministerial Committee for Shin Bet Affairs.
Iran’s mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the accusation.
The revelation underscores ongoing heightened tensions between Israel and Iran.