Netanyahu accuses Iran of targeting his son
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons, adding a dramatic personal dimension to his call for heightened security for political candidates ahead of Israel's October 27 election.
In an interview with Israel's Channel 14, Netanyahu made the accusation without identifying which of his sons was targeted or providing any details about when or how the alleged plot unfolded.
He said, "This is an unbelievable case. Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to murder him, tried to murder one of my sons." In a separate remark, he added, "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.]"
The remarks were made during a discussion about security arrangements for Gadi Eisenkot, a former army chief and political rival running against Netanyahu in the upcoming election. Netanyahu linked the alleged plot to his demand for continuous protection, saying it was "not a luxury" and warning, "Without that, they will succeed."
Security for candidates
Netanyahu told Channel 14 that he had spoken with Shin Bet chief David Zini and requested that protection be provided for prime ministerial candidates. The call comes amid a broader debate over the level of security given to senior political figures in the country.
The Shin Bet, Israel's domestic security agency, had earlier extended personal protection to Netanyahu's wife Sara and their sons Yair and Avner, as approved in July by the Ministerial Committee for Shin Bet Affairs. Netanyahu's elder son, Yair, has spent extended periods in Miami since 2024 and has reportedly received Shin Bet protection while there, which has drawn scrutiny in the past over the cost to taxpayers and concerns from some South Florida residents.
The prime minister has three children in total: sons Yair and Avner, and daughter Noa. Netanyahu did not indicate which of his sons was allegedly the target.
The allegations come as Israel approaches a tightly contested election in which security and the ongoing conflict with Iran are expected to be major themes. It also comes as Israel negotiates a withdrawal from southern Lebanon, where its forces have been fighting the Iran-backed Hezbollah group, and as Israel's security threats from Iran-linked actors across the region continue to surface publicly.
Netanyahu's comments did not include further information that could independently establish the alleged assassination attempt. He also called for restraint during the election campaign, saying people need to show restraint, especially at a time of heightened tensions.