Israel’s Netanyahu says Iran ‘tried to kill’ one of his sons
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons, though he provided no specific details. The statement was made during a discussion regarding security details for political rivals, amid ongoing regional tensions.
Why it matters
The claim adds a layer of personal security concern to the already volatile geopolitical relationship between Israel and Iran.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (August 23, 2026) that Iran had attempted to assassinate one of his two sons, without offering further details.
“Something incredible happened: Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to kill one of my sons,” Mr. Netanyahu said during a phone interview with Israel’s Channel 14 .
The claim came during a discussion about reports that the Shin Bet domestic security agency had declined to provide a security detail for Gadi Eisenkot, the former army chief who is running neck and neck with Mr. Netanyahu ahead of elections on October 27.
Mr. Netanyahu voiced support for around-the-clock protection for Eisenkot, saying it was “not a luxury”.
“Without that, (the Iranians) will succeed,” he said.
Mr. Netanyahu has two sons and a daughter. It remains unclear which of his sons was allegedly targeted.
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