Israeli PM Netanyahu Scheduled for Hernia Surgery with Temporary Deputy Appointment

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to undergo surgery for a hernia, his office announced. The surgery will be performed under full anesthesia.

The 74-year-old Netanyahu was diagnosed with a hernia during a routine examination on Saturday. He is scheduled to have the surgery at the end of business on Sunday.

Israel's leader will be taking a temporary break from his duties due to surgery, while the nation is engaged in conflict with Hamas in Gaza following the October 7 attacks.

During his absence, Israel's deputy prime minister and justice minister, Yariv Levin, will be stepping in to fulfill Netanyahu's responsibilities.

Yariv Levin, left, will step in for the Prime Minister while he is incapacitated.

Yariv Levin, left, will step in for the Prime Minister while he is incapacitated.

Abir Sultan/AFP/Getty Images

The operation will take place amid renewed talks between Israel and Hamas in Cairo, according to a report in Egyptian media.

Last week, negotiations to free the remaining Israeli hostages from the militant group in Gaza in exchange for a ceasefire hit a standstill.

This is Netanyahu’s second surgery since he became Prime Minister again in late 2022. Last summer, a health scare led to the Israeli leader getting a pacemaker for a transient heart block.

Netanyahu had a hernia in 2013, which needed surgery.

A hernia is when there is a hole in the abdominal muscle wall, allowing something from inside the abdomen to stick out, as explained by Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Editor's P/S:

The article reports on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's upcoming surgery for a hernia. This is a relatively common procedure, but it is still a significant event for the leader of a nation engaged in conflict. Netanyahu's absence from his duties during this time is likely to raise concerns about the stability of the Israeli government and the ongoing negotiations with Hamas.

It is important to note that Netanyahu has had a history of health issues, including a hernia in 2013 and a heart block last summer. These health concerns have raised questions about his ability to continue serving as Prime Minister, especially given his advanced age. However, Netanyahu has consistently maintained that he is fit for office, and his doctors have cleared him to continue working. conflict.