Netanyahu alleges Iranian plot against his son amid election race

In a phone interview with Israel's Channel 14, the prime minister said Iran had targeted one of his two sons for assassination. "Something incredible happened: Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to kill one of my sons," he told the broadcaster.

The claim and its timing

The allegation surfaced while Shin Bet, Israel's domestic security agency, reportedly refused to assign a protective detail to former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, who is currently neck and neck with Netanyahu in polls for the October 27 election. Netanyahu urged that Eisenkot receive round‑the‑clock protection, calling it "not a luxury" and warning that without it, "the Iranians will succeed".

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

Implications for Israel's security and politics

Netanyahu has two sons and a daughter; his elder son, Yair, 35, has been living in Miami under Shin Bet protection since early 2024. His presence in the United States has sparked debate in Israel over the cost of security and concerns that his location could make South Florida a target for hostile actors.

The accusation arrives as the United States prepares new measures against Iran. US sanctions on Iran could further strain diplomatic ties and raise the stakes for any covert operations.

Looking ahead

Journalist Amit Segal later wrote that the alleged plot had been known for months but was covered by a gag order. If the claim proves credible, Israel may tighten security for high‑profile figures and intensify its rhetoric against Tehran. The election campaign is likely to feature heightened security narratives, and any escalation could impact regional stability and international responses.