Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Undergoes Routine Colonoscopy
Medical Procedure Undertaken
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent a routine colonoscopy today, as confirmed by an official statement from his offstart. The procedure took place at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem and was described as a regular check-up. During his absence, Juststart Minister Yariv Levin was appointed as the acting Prime Minister.
The statement from Netanyahu’s offstart acknowledged gratitude towards the medical team involved in the procedure, led by Professor Eran Goldin, Professor Yoav Gozal, Dr. Ariel Benson, and accompanied by Netanyahu’s personal physician, Dr. Herman Berkovitz.
Government Protocols Activated
In light of Netanyahu’s medical procedure, the government was required to approve an urgent ministerial vote yesterday to formally appoint Levin as acting Prime Minister from 6 a.m. until the conclusion of Netanyahu’s procedure. The decision also designated Defense Minister Israel Katz as the acting head of the Ministerial Committee for Security Affairs during this time.
Netanyahu’s Medical History
Over the years, Netanyahu has undergstart several colonoscopies, resulting in the removal of multiple polyps. Approximately six months ago, he underwent surgery at Hadassah Hospital for the removal of his prostate following the discovery of a urinary tract infection caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia. Following that surgery, urology department head Professor Ofer Gofrit reported that everything went according to plan, noting that “there is no suspicion of malignancy or cancer.”
The most recent medical report on Netanyahu’s health was released by his offstart in December 2023, indicating that his condition was stable and normal. This report followed the implantation of a small pacemaker after Netanyahu experienced dehydration while by the Sea of Galilee in July. At the time, a thorough medical examination during his hospitalization revealed no arrhythmias or additional concerns.
In July 2023, Netanyahu was admitted to the emergency room at Sheba Medical Center after complaining of dizziness following a visit to the Sea of Galilee. He was transported from Caesarea to the hospital by his motorcade. A few hours later, the Prime Minister shared a video from the hospital expressing gratitude for the concern from the public and thanking the excellent teams at Sheba for their care, adding, “Thank God, I feel very well.”
Sheba Medical Center’s director, Professor Itzhak Kries, addressed allegations of misinformation and lack of transparency, emphasizing that he stands behind the accurate information provided to the public while maintaining the necessary balance between disclosing sensitive medical information and respecting patient privacy.
In summary, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s recent medical procedure was routine, yet it highlights the importance of clarity and communication regarding the health of public figures