Netanyahu claims Iran tried to kill his son

JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his two sons, making the startling allegation as tensions between Israel and Iran remain high.

Netanyahu made the claim during a telephone interview with Israel’s Channel 14. He said Iran had specifically targeted one of his sons and attempted to kill him, but did not provide details about when or where the alleged plot took place.

The Israeli leader also did not identify which of his two sons was allegedly targeted. Netanyahu’s sons are Yair and Avner. Yair, 35, has spent extended periods in Miami in recent years, while Avner lives in Israel.

The claim has not been independently verified, and there has been no detailed public response from Iranian authorities confirming or addressing the alleged attempt. Netanyahu’s remarks therefore remain an unverified allegation.

The prime minister raised the issue while defending enhanced security arrangements for his family. He argued that threats from Iran demonstrate why protective measures for his wife and sons should not be viewed as a privilege or luxury.

“Without that, [the Iranians] will succeed,” Netanyahu said while discussing the need for security protection.

The remarks come amid a wider debate in Israel over security arrangements for senior political figures and their families. Reports have said Israeli authorities approved extended personal protection for Netanyahu’s wife Sara and his two sons, including protection that could continue even if Netanyahu leaves office following the country’s upcoming election.

The issue has also become politically sensitive ahead of Israel’s October 27 general election. Netanyahu’s coalition is facing a competitive race, while former military chief Gadi Eisenkot is among his prominent political rivals.

Israeli media have reported that the alleged plot may have been known to the country’s security establishment for months but was subject to restrictions on publication. However, publicly available information has not established the exact circumstances of the alleged operation or identified the son who was supposedly targeted.

Netanyahu’s accusation adds another dramatic layer to the already tense relationship between Israel and Iran. With both sides continuing to exchange threats and accusations, the claim is likely to draw further attention to the security of Israeli political leaders and their families.