Kathmandu— Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Monday that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons, though he did not specify which son was targeted, when the alleged plot occurred, or how close it came to fruition. The accusation surfaced during a conversation on Israel’s Channel 14 regarding security measures for political rival Gadi Eisenkot, a former Israeli military chief challenging Netanyahu in the upcoming October 27 general election. Netanyahu argued that providing round-the-clock protection for Eisenkot was essential, warning that failure to do so could lead to success for Iranian operatives.

Allegation Made Amidst Election Campaign

Netanyahu made the claim while discussing security arrangements for Gadi Eisenkot, a former Israeli military chief and current political rival. He stated that Iran had targeted one of his sons in an assassination attempt, framing increased protection for Eisenkot as a necessity to prevent similar outcomes. The timing of the announcement comes as Netanyahu faces a challenging reelection campaign, with polls indicating his governing bloc may fall short of securing a parliamentary majority.

Expanded Security Measures

Israeli media reports indicate that Netanyahu’s wife, Sara, and both sons were granted expanded state protection in July. Channel 12 reported the alleged Iranian plot had been known to Israeli security services for several months but was subject to a military gag order, limiting public disclosure of the information. The details surrounding the alleged attempt remain scarce.

Past Claims Of Iranian Plots

This is not the first time claims of Iranian assassination attempts against high-profile figures have surfaced. Former US President Donald Trump previously asserted that Tehran had repeatedly tried to kill him, even before a series of strikes in February resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and members of his family. During the NATO summit in Türkiye in July, Trump was reportedly moved from Air Force One into a catering truck and transferred to another aircraft following Israeli intelligence about an alleged Iranian threat.

Israeli security services have not publicly commented on the specifics of the alleged plot against Netanyahu’s son, and Tehran has denied broader accusations of targeting foreign officials. The claim adds further complexity to an already tense political landscape in Israel as it approaches its general election.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.