**Israeli Prime Minister Undergoes Successful Surgery for Prostate Removal**
TEL AVIV, Israel — On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu successfully underwent surgery to remove his prostate, according to hospital officials. This procedure took place amidst ongoing crises including the conflict in Gaza and his legal battles related to alleged corruption.
At 75 years old, Netanyahu has faced various health challenges in recent years but has made efforts to present himself as a robust and dynamic leader. During his recent trial, he highlighted his intensive work hours, claiming to work up to 18 hours each day while smoking a cigar. However, after 17 years in office, the demanding schedule may be taking a toll on his health.
Netanyahu belongs to a cohort of older global leaders including U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, and Pope Francis, 88, who have faced scrutiny regarding their age and health conditions. While prostate issues are common among older men, Netanyahu’s surgery has implications for his ongoing trial. His defense attorney requested adjustments to the trial schedule, successfully prompting the judges to postpone three days of testimony, citing the necessity of sedation and hospitalization.
Dr. Ofer Gofrit, who heads the urology department at Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, reported that the surgery went smoothly and there were no concerns regarding cancer. Netanyahu expressed gratitude towards his medical team and was declared “fully alert” as he was moved to a secure recovery unit designed to withstand potential missile threats. He is expected to remain hospitalized for several days for monitoring.
During Netanyahu’s surgical procedure, Justice Minister Yariv Levin acted as the interim prime minister. Given the current tumultuous geopolitical landscape, Netanyahu’s health in this critical time is of significant concern for both the Israeli population and the global community.
As the leader of Israel, Netanyahu is pivotal in navigating international matters that are reshaping dynamics in the Middle East. With pressing negotiations for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas gaining traction, any health-related absence could be detrimental.
While prostate surgery is a standard procedure, it comes at a time when Netanyahu aims to maintain a strong public image, particularly in light of Israel’s constant security challenges and its adversaries’ desire to exploit perceived vulnerabilities.
In recent months, Netanyahu has attempted to dispel public concern regarding his health, showcasing himself in active roles such as visiting war zones and engaging with military officials, flaunting a youthful demeanor. However, his facade faced scrutiny last year when health problems, including a heart condition, became public knowledge. Following a fainting episode, he was reported to have a pacemaker fitted due to his previously undisclosed irregular heartbeats.
This heart condition revelation coincided with widespread protests against his government, exacerbating existing divisions within Israel’s political landscape. Following a hospitalization due to dehydration last year, and an earlier hernia surgery, Netanyahu’s health has remained a topic of concern among the public.
As per reports from his office, Netanyahu was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection last Wednesday, linked to a benign enlargement of his prostate. Though treated with antibiotics, surgery was deemed necessary. Dr. Shay Golan, an oncology urologist, highlighted that complications from prostate enlargement are common in older men, which may require surgical intervention to prevent further urinary complications.
In Netanyahu’s case, it is likely that an endoscopic approach was used, which is minimally invasive. Such procedures typically last about an hour and promote a swift recovery, with normal activities resuming shortly after—aside from temporary catheter use.
