Netanyahu Reveals Iran Tried to Assassinate One of His Sons Amid Security Debate

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu disclosed on July 31 that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons, revealing information that had been classified for months. Netanyahu made the announcement during a live broadcast on Channel 14, emphasizing the high security threat against his family and the necessity of their protection. "Iran targeted one of my sons, tried to kill him," Netanyahu said, underscoring that security measures are essential and not optional, especially during an election campaign.

The Israeli Cabinet's Security Service Committee approved lifetime security for Netanyahu and his wife Sarah on July 16, with security for their children extended for five years after Netanyahu leaves office, effectively until the end of 2031. Security agencies including Shin Bet and Mossad assess that Netanyahu and his family face a high-level threat due to enemies seeking revenge for Israeli operations and assassinations during ongoing conflicts.

This is not the first time such threats have been reported. Previously, Ronen Haim Cohen, chair of the advisory committee on personal security, confirmed a foiled assassination attempt on a Netanyahu family member but was barred from publicizing details. Cohen highlighted the unprecedented scale of threats against political leaders' families, particularly from Iran and Lebanon, necessitating extensive protection.

Netanyahu's revelation comes amid public debate over security provisions for Gadi Eizenkot, former IDF Chief of Staff and a leading contender against Netanyahu in the upcoming elections. Despite calls from former Prime Ministers Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennett for Shin Bet to provide Eizenkot with personal security, the agency has declined. Eizenkot's campaign has resorted to private security at large events following Shin Bet's refusal.

Shin Bet Chief David Zini and the Central Election Committee have stated that there is no justification for providing Eizenkot with official security, a decision confirmed after consultations with legal and security experts. Netanyahu's disclosure of the assassination attempt on his son may be linked to this ongoing controversy over security allocations during the election period.