Netanyahu Remains In Israel Amid Assassination Rumors And “Fleeing” Claims

JERUSALEM — In the wake of the historic joint US-Israeli strike that resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has become the target of an intense disinformation campaign.

1. The “Germany Flight” Hoax

On Saturday, several social media accounts cited “alleged flight radar data” claiming that Wings of Zion was en route to Germany.

• The Reality: The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Netanyahu did not leave the country. He was pictured on Sunday in Tel Aviv, attending security briefings and visiting Beit Shemesh to offer condolences following recent local casualties.
• Flight Context: While the aircraft has been active in recent weeks—including a trip to Washington in February—there is no confirmed evidence of a flight to Germany during this weekend’s strikes.

2. Debunking Assassination Claims

Propaganda accounts, largely linked to Iranian-affiliated networks, have circulated false reports claiming that Netanyahu was assassinated in a retaliatory strike.

• The Truth: These reports are entirely false. Netanyahu has continued to issue statements, including a televised address celebrating the success of Operation Epic Fury and mourning the loss of the three U.S. service members killed in retaliatory strikes.

3. Escalation on the Northern Front

While Netanyahu manages the state from Tel Aviv, the conflict with Hezbollah has intensified:

• Haifa Strike: On Sunday, Hezbollah launched a “revenge strike” on an Israeli army base south of Haifa, explicitly citing the killing of Khamenei as the motive.
• IDF Response: In retaliation, the IDF conducted precision airstrikes in Beirut and southern Lebanon, targeting senior Hezbollah commanders.

Official Status Update: March 2, 2026