Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu alleged that Iran targeted and tried to murder one of his sons.
The Prime Minister did not specify whether the target was his elder son Yair or his younger son Avner.
Netanyahu defended the controversial, high-cost state security protection provided to his family members as a necessity.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has alleged that Iran tried to assassinate one of his sons, during an interview with Israel's Channel 14 on Monday. The claim comes amid sustained regional tensions and direct military confrontation between the two countries.
Netanyahu said, "This is an unbelievable case. Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to murder him, tried to murder one of my sons."
Netanyahu did not identify which of his two sons was targeted. He also withheld details regarding the timing or method of the plot and did not clarify how authorities uncovered the threat.
Debate Over Protection Costs
The prime minister has two sons. Yair, his elder son, has lived in Miami since 2024, while Avner, the younger, resides mainly in Israel.
In July, the Ministerial Committee for Shin Bet Affairs authorised extended personal protection for Sara Netanyahu, Yair and Avner. Security arrangements for Yair in the US have previously drawn controversy over high overseas protection costs.
Defending the measures, Netanyahu said, "The security they [Netanyahu's family] get is not a luxury."
Elections Fuel Security Row
Netanyahu made the claims during a broader discussion on reports that the Shin Bet had declined to provide a security detail for Gadi Eisenkot, a potential election rival.
A Channel 14 reporter asked him, "Is this part of the intelligence provided to you?"
Netanyahu replied, "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 urged restraint during the election campaign and called for appropriate security to be provided to political candidates.
