Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that Iran attempted to kill one of his sons. He made the statement during a phone interview with Israeli broadcaster Channel 14 on August 23, 2026.
Netanyahu did not give details about the alleged incident or explain when or where it took place. He also did not identify which of his two sons was reportedly targeted.
The claim came during a discussion about security arrangements for Gadi Eisenkot, a former Israeli army chief and a political rival of Netanyahu.
Netanyahu Raises Security Concerns
During the interview, Netanyahu criticised the reported decision by Israel’s Shin Bet domestic security agency not to provide Eisenkot with a permanent protection team.
Netanyahu argued that Eisenkot should have continuous security because of the threat from Iran. He said protection for people facing such risks should not be treated as a luxury.
He used the alleged attempt against his own son as an example of the dangers posed by Iran and warned that similar threats could affect other senior Israeli figures.
Questions Over Which Son Was Targeted
Netanyahu has three children — two sons and a daughter. However, he did not say which son was the target of the alleged assassination attempt.
His older son, Yair Netanyahu, is 35 and has been living in Miami since early 2024. He has been under protection from Shin Bet security personnel.
Yair’s security arrangements have already been the subject of public debate in Israel. Critics have questioned the cost of providing protection outside the country and raised concerns about the wider security risks connected to his presence in Miami.
Alleged Attempt Was Kept Secret
After Netanyahu’s comments became public on August 24, Israeli journalist Amit Segal reported that the alleged assassination attempt had actually been known to authorities for several months.
According to Segal, information about the incident had not been publicly reported because of a court-imposed gag order. Such orders can restrict the publication of sensitive information, particularly when authorities believe that releasing details could affect an investigation or national security.
The lifting or discussion of the information has now brought renewed attention to the security threats faced by Netanyahu’s family.
Security Remains a Major Concern
The allegations come at a time when tensions between Israel and Iran remain a major security concern. Netanyahu’s comments have also reopened discussions about how security should be provided to senior political figures, former military officials, and members of their families.
However, because Netanyahu did not provide specific details about the alleged incident, many questions remain unanswered. Authorities have not publicly explained the exact nature of the reported attempt or identified the son who was allegedly targeted.
The claim is therefore likely to face further public and political discussion as more information becomes available.