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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s son, Avner Netanyahu, reportedly changed his name to "Avi Segal" before moving to the United Kingdom in 2022 for university studies, according to local media reports.
The reports suggest Avner altered his name because of concerns over being identified as the son of the Israeli leader, particularly in areas with a significant Muslim population.
He reportedly registered at a British university under the name Avi Segal and purchased a flat in the U.K. worth £502,000 ($683,867) in cash.
Citing unnamed sources, the media indicated that Avner also changed his name on official documents, including his passport and driver's license. The surname "Segal" was reportedly chosen from his paternal grandmother’s family name.
According to Israeli law, foreign property purchases below 2 million shekels ($598,453) do not require a declaration to tax authorities. The flat purchased by Avner reportedly fell below this threshold at the time of the transaction due to currency exchange rates.
Avner Netanyahu is said to have returned to Israel following the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attacks in 2023.
The revelation comes amid scrutiny of the Netanyahu family's assets. Israeli media noted the family owns several properties domestically and abroad.
Separately, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s elder son, Yair Netanyahu, has reportedly been summoned for questioning by Lahav 433, the police’s anti-corruption unit.
He is suspected of receiving a diplomatic passport without eligibility.
Israeli intelligence agency Shin Bet reportedly concluded there was no justification for granting the document. The investigation is ongoing.
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