Benjamin Netanyahu Claims Iran Tried To Kill One of His Sons: Which Son Was Targeted?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, August 24, claimed that Iran had attempted to kill one of his sons, but did not identify which son was allegedly targeted or provide details about the purported assassination attempt. Netanyahu made the claim during a phone conversation with Channel 14's military correspondent Noam Amir.

The remarks came amid a debate over security arrangements for former Israel Defence Forces chief Gadi Eisenkot, who is running as a major contender ahead of Israel's October 27 election. Netanyahu argued that political candidates facing security threats should receive appropriate protection. Benjamin Netanyahu Says Israel Will Stay in Southern Lebanon ‘As Long as Necessary’ and Prevent Iran From Going Nuclear.

Benjamin Netanyahu Claims Iran Tried To Kill One of His Sons

Benjamin Netanyahu Makes Assassination Attempt Claim

"This is an unbelievable case. Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to murder him, tried to murder one of my sons," Netanyahu said. When asked whether the alleged attempt was linked to intelligence provided to him, Netanyahu repeated the claim and connected it to his argument for enhanced security, The Jerusalem Post reported.

"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," Netanyahu replied.

Netanyahu said he had spoken with Shin Bet chief David Zini and asked the agency to provide appropriate security for candidates running for prime minister.

Which Of Netanyahu's Sons Was Targeted?

Netanyahu has two sons, Yair and Avner. The prime minister did not say which of them was allegedly targeted. The Jerusalem Post reported that he did not appear to indicate whether Yair or Avner was the subject of the alleged Iranian plot.

Yair Netanyahu, 35, has spent extended periods in Miami since early 2024 and has been under Shin Bet protection, according to the information provided. His security arrangements have previously attracted public debate over costs to Israeli taxpayers.

Avner Netanyahu generally maintains a lower public profile and lives in Israel. In July, the ministerial committee overseeing Shin Bet affairs approved extended personal protection for Netanyahu's wife, Sara, and their sons, Yair and Avner.

Reportedly Under Publication Ban For Months

Prominent Israeli journalist Amit Segal reportedly wrote on his Telegram channel that information about the alleged assassination attempt had been known for months but was subject to a gag order. The Jerusalem Post also reported that the claim had been under restrictions on publication.

No further public details about the alleged plot, including when it occurred, how it was detected or what action was taken, were provided in Netanyahu's remarks.

Claim Emerges Amid Election Security Debate

Netanyahu's comments came as questions were being raised over security for Gadi Eisenkot, a former army chief who is considered a major contender in the October election.

Netanyahu said security protection for political candidates was necessary and not a luxury, while urging restraint during the election campaign.

The claim also comes against the backdrop of the continuing confrontation between Israel and Iran and heightened security concerns surrounding senior Israeli figures.

Netanyahu's allegation has not, in the material available, been accompanied by publicly released evidence detailing the alleged assassination attempt. The identity of the son allegedly targeted and the circumstances of the purported operation also remain unclear.

As the claim concerns an alleged intelligence and security operation, further details would depend on disclosures by Israeli security authorities or additional reporting.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 24, 2026 11:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).