Netanyahu undergoes prostate surgery amid multiple crises
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Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is undergoing prostate removal surgery on Sunday, his office confirmed. This procedure comes at a time when Netanyahu is grappling with multiple high-stakes issues, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza and his trial for alleged corruption.
At 75, Netanyahu joins a cohort of aging world leaders, such as U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump, whose health and fitness have come under scrutiny due to their advanced age. Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving leader, has faced several health challenges in recent years, though he has consistently projected an image of vitality and energy. Despite reports of his health issues, Netanyahu has maintained a vigorous work schedule, boasting about his 18-hour workdays, though these long hours have sometimes been coupled with cigar smoking.
The prostate surgery follows Netanyahu’s recent diagnosis of a urinary tract infection caused by benign prostate enlargement. His office said the infection was successfully treated with antibiotics, but he requires surgery to remove the prostate to prevent future complications. Health experts, including Dr. Shay Golan, head of oncology urology at Israel’s Rabin Medical Center, noted that prostate enlargement is common among men in their 70s and 80s. The procedure, which will be minimally invasive, is expected to last about an hour, with a quick recovery and no significant limitations on Netanyahu’s activities after the procedure.
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The surgery has led to immediate legal and political ramifications. Netanyahu’s lawyer, Amit Hadad, informed the court that the prime minister would be fully sedated for the operation and required several days of hospitalization, requesting a postponement of Netanyahu’s testimony in an ongoing trial. The court agreed, with an acting prime minister set to temporarily assume leadership duties while Netanyahu recovers.
This health issue underscores the challenges Netanyahu faces as he leads Israel through a turbulent period, both politically and militarily. As the country remains embroiled in the war with Hamas in Gaza and escalating tensions with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, Netanyahu’s absence, even for a short period, could carry significant implications.
Prostate problems are common in older men, with the condition often treatable through surgery. However, in Netanyahu’s case, the procedure may take on greater significance as he faces public scrutiny of his health. The timing of the surgery, amid international negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza, brings additional attention to Netanyahu’s physical condition, particularly as he seeks to maintain an image of strength at a time when Israel’s security and political stability are under extreme pressure.
In recent years, Netanyahu has been open about other health issues, including a heart condition that was revealed only after a fainting spell last year, prompting the installation of a pacemaker. He also underwent hernia surgery earlier this year, with close associate Yariv Levin temporarily taking over as acting prime minister during the procedure.
As Netanyahu recovers from this surgery, Israel and the world will be closely watching both his health and his leadership during this critical time.
With PTI inputs