In a surprise announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent surgery to treat a hernia at Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem in Jerusalem. The surgery was successful, with Netanyahu in “excellent” health following the procedure. The hospital’s director of general surgery confirmed that Netanyahu is awake, talking to his family, and his situation is perfect.
As a result of the surgery, Netanyahu had to temporarily step down from his duties as the nation was at war with Hamas in Gaza. Israel’s deputy prime minister and justice minister filled in for him during his incapacitation. Despite the surgery, Netanyahu remained optimistic about the results and said he would return to work quickly.
The surgery took place while negotiations between Israel and Hamas were ongoing in Cairo, attempting to secure the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for a ceasefire. This is Netanyahu’s second surgery since re-taking office in late 2022, following a health scare last summer that led to him getting a pacemaker fitted. He had a previous hernia surgery in 2013 as well.
A hernia is a gap in the abdominal muscular wall that allows something inside the abdomen to protrude outward. Netanyahu’s previous hernia surgery was successful, and he is expected to make a full recovery from this recent procedure.
