Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed viral social media rumors of his assassination on March 15, 2026, releasing a video where he quipped, “I’m dying for a coffee,” while showing his hands to counter “six-finger” AI claims.
Rumor Origins
Speculation surged after Netanyahu skipped a March 14 military meeting and Iranian media (Tasnim) amplified unconfirmed reports of his death from strikes, citing ex-US intelligence Scott Ritter via Russian sources. Social media pointed to “AI glitches” in a prior video, like extra fingers at 0:35.
Netanyahu gestures during a recent address, countering digital manipulation theories.
Official Rebuttal
His office labeled claims “fake news,” confirming he’s “fine.” IRGC vowed to “pursue and kill” him if alive, amid escalating US-Israel strikes on Iran (Day 17).
War Context
Rumors coincide with Iran’s Sejjil missile launches at Tel Aviv, Hezbollah barrages, and Trump’s Hormuz coalition push following Khamenei’s death.
