Netanyahu says Iran attempted to assassinate his son

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons. The claim surfaced during a telephone interview broadcast live on air by Israel's Channel 14.

The conversation took place spontaneously when the broadcaster's Sheva current-affairs programme, hosted by Noam Amir, decided to test a telephone number that Netanyahu had publicized the previous day, inviting citizens to call him. After Netanyahu answered, a brief verification exchange occurred in the studio. Netanyahu joked in response to a request for verification, asking, according to The JC: What is 'like his'? What, is Topaz imitating me? It's clear it's me.

Media additions

Netanyahu then addressed threats against himself and his family during the live interview. According to Oneindia, he stated:

"Something incredible happened: Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to kill one of my sons."

Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel, via OneIndia

The JC reported similar phrasing from the broadcast:

"Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to murder, to kill one of my sons. It tried to murder him."

Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel, via The JC

Netanyahu did not elaborate when asked whether the information stemmed from intelligence presented to him, choosing instead to repeat his assertion. He also did not specify which of his sons—Avner or Yair—was targeted, nor did he reveal the timing of the alleged plot or how it was carried out, leaving the claim resting entirely on his statements.

According to The JC, the information regarding the plot had reportedly been subjected to a military publication ban and censorship for months before being disclosed on air. Netanyahu urged the public to exercise restraint regarding the subject, even amid an election campaign.

The conversation during the Sheva broadcast expanded beyond the security of the prime minister's family. Netanyahu was asked about election rival Gadi Eisenkot's security and the protection provided to Eisenkot's sons. Netanyahu stated that he had already spoken to the head of the Shin Bet to ensure appropriate security measures for individuals running for prime minister.

The interview also touched upon accusations that security escalations were intended to serve Netanyahu during the election period. Netanyahu specifically rejected claims regarding military activity in Syria aimed at preventing Turkish entrenchment. He maintained that serious security discussions on the matter originated with the IDF, with all security officials recommending action to block the move.

Netanyahu stated during the interview, according to The JC:

"I am fighting against Turkey's attempt to essentially establish forward bases against the state of Israel."

Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel, via The JC

He asserted that he was handling threats with responsibility, determination, and firmness, even when facing pressure. Additionally, Netanyahu and Amir discussed the political landscape, including the large number of small parties competing for right-wing votes. Netanyahu warned that a split among these factions could bring down the right.

Key points from the reports

• Benjamin Netanyahu stated live on Channel 14 that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons.
• The prime minister did not specify which son was targeted, when the plot occurred, or how it was carried out.
• The information had reportedly been under a military publication ban and censorship for months.
• The interview occurred during an impromptu call after Netanyahu publicized his phone number to citizens.
• Netanyahu rejected claims that military actions against Turkish entrenchment in Syria were tied to the election campaign.