'Iran tried to kill one of my sons': Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu makes shocking claim

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (August 24) claimed that Iran tried to assassinate one of his two sons, without offering further details. In a phone interview with Israel's Channel 14, Netanyahu said, "Something incredible happened: Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to kill one of my sons."

The claim was made during a discussion about reports that Israel’s domestic security agency, Shin Bet, had declined to provide a security detail for Gadi Eisenkot, the former army chief who is running a close race with Netanyahu ahead of the October 27 elections.

Netanyahu backed providing Eisenkot with round-the-clock security, saying such protection was 'not a luxury'. "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 (the Iranians) could succeed (in killing my son). People need to show some restraint, especially during an election campaign," Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu has two sons and a daughter. It remains unclear which of Netanyahu's sons — Yair or Avner — was allegedly targeted, as well as when and how the purported assassination attempt took place.

According to The Times of Israel, Avner lives in Israel, while his elder brother Yair, 35, has spent much of the past few years in Miami since early 2024,  reportedly under Shin Bet protection.

Yair's stay in the United States has sparked controversy in Israel over the cost of providing security at taxpayers’ expense. His presence has also raised concerns among some South Florida residents, who fear that it could make the area a potential target for attacks by Israel's enemies.

Yair is known for his hardline right-wing views and commentary.

Shortly after Netanyahu's remarks became public on Monday, prominent Israeli journalist Amit Segal wrote on his Telegram channel that the alleged assassination attempt had been known for "months" but was subject to a gag order.

According to the Jerusalem Post, in July, the Ministerial Committee for Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) Affairs approved the granting of extended personal protection to Netanyahu's wife, Sara, and their sons, Yair and Avner.