Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent successful prostate surgery last night, his office reported, the Associated Press reported, quoted by BTA.
The agency notes that the medical procedure was necessary against the backdrop of several crises, including the war in Gaza and his trial for alleged corruption. Despite suffering from various health problems in recent years, Netanyahu has built a public image as a healthy and energetic leader. During his trial this month, the 75-year-old politician boasted that he works 18 hours a day.
The Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem reported that the prostate was successfully removed during the operation, in which Netanyahu was under general anesthesia. The hospital team says the prime minister is awake and recovering.
Complications from prostate enlargement are common in older men, Dr. Shai Golan, head of the oncology urology service at Israel's Rabin Medical Center, told Israel's Army Radio. The specialist is not involved in Netanyahu's care or treatment.
He said an enlarged prostate can block the bladder from emptying properly, leading to a buildup of urine that can lead to infections and other complications. After medical treatment, doctors may recommend a procedure to remove the prostate.
In Netanyahu's case, because the prostate enlargement is not malignant, Golan said doctors likely performed an endoscopic procedure rather than making surgical incisions in the abdomen to reach the gland.
The procedure takes about an hour, Golan said, and recovery is quick. He said that, with the exception of the use of a catheter for several days after the procedure, patients can return to normal activities without significant restrictions.
Netanyahu's office said that the prime minister's duties will be temporarily assumed by his close ally and Justice Minister Yariv Levin. Netanyahu is expected to remain in the hospital for the next few days. The AP notes that such operations often affect the further condition of patients.
Meanwhile, the judges overseeing the prime minister's trial accepted a request from his lawyer to postpone testimony scheduled for this week.
The AP noted that Netanyahu's health condition, amid the war in Gaza, is a concern for both Israelis and the world. Netanyahu was admitted to the hospital at a time when international mediators are urging Israel and the Palestinian movement “Hamas“ to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza.
At the same time, the procedure damages Netanyahu's image at a time when he would like more than ever to demonstrate strength, both to Israeli society and to Israel's enemies.
Netanyahu insists that he is in excellent health. His office often publishes footage of him touring military zones in full protective gear, surrounded by soldiers.