Netanyahu has a successful prostate surgery.

On a Sunday, Tel Aviv hospital officials announced that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had undergone a successful surgery to remove his prostate. This procedure comes at a time when Netanyahu is facing multiple challenges, including managing the ongoing conflict in Gaza and his trial for alleged corruption.

Being the longest-serving leader in Israel, Netanyahu has always strived to maintain a healthy and energetic image, despite facing various health issues in recent years. In fact, during his trial, he proudly boasted about working 18-hour days, often with a cigar in hand. However, it is undeniable that the strain of being in power for a total of 17 years could take a toll on his well-being.

It is noteworthy that Netanyahu is among several world leaders, including US President Joe Biden, President-elect Donald Trump, Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Pope Francis, who have faced scrutiny due to their age and health concerns. At 75 years old, Netanyahu's latest condition, while common in older men, has caused some complications. As a result, his lawyer requested a halt to three days of scheduled testimony this week, citing Netanyahu's full sedation and hospitalization for "a number of days."

Fortunately, the Hadassah Medical Centre in Jerusalem confirmed that the surgery was successful, and Netanyahu had woken up. The prime minister expressed his gratitude to his doctors and was described as being "fully alert." As a precautionary measure, he was transferred to an underground recovery unit that is fortified against potential missile attacks. It is expected that Netanyahu will remain in the hospital for a few more days for observation.

While Netanyahu's health is of utmost importance to both Israelis and the rest of the world, it is especially concerning during a time of war. As the leader of Israel, he plays a crucial role in major global events that are shaping the Middle East. With the constant and fast-paced developments in the region, even a brief period of incapacitation could have significant consequences.

The timing of the surgery is also crucial as international mediators are working towards a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, and tensions between Israel and Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels continue to escalate. Therefore, Netanyahu's absence during this critical time could potentially jeopardize the outcome of these negotiations.

Prostate issues are common and easily treatable in most cases. However, the surgery puts a dent in Netanyahu's image of vigour, especially when he needs to project strength to both the Israeli public and his enemies during this challenging time.

This is not the first time Netanyahu's health has come under the spotlight. Last year, he was rushed to the hospital due to dehydration, causing a delay in his weekly Cabinet meeting. He also underwent hernia surgery earlier this year, during which he was unconscious and temporarily replaced by his close ally, Justice Minister Yariv Levin.

According to Netanyahu's office, the prime minister was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection last Wednesday, which stemmed from a benign enlargement of his prostate. Although the infection was successfully treated with antibiotics, doctors deemed the surgery necessary. Dr Shay Golan, an oncology urology service head at Israel's Rabin Medical Centre, explained that prostate enlargement can lead to complications, such as blocking proper bladder emptying and causing infections. In such cases, a surgery to remove the prostate is recommended to prevent future blockages.

However, in Netanyahu's case, the procedure is relatively straightforward and involves using endoscopic surgery, which uses small instruments inserted into the body cavity instead of making incisions in the abdomen. The surgery lasts for about an hour, and recovery is generally quick, with patients only needing a catheter for a few days and being able to resume normal activities shortly after.

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