Netanyahu Hospitalized Again for Surgery Amid Political Turmoil

Watan-In a politically sensitive moment, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was hospitalized for a medical examination that turned into surgery, temporarily removing him from his position at the head of government. This is not the first time—just five months ago, Netanyahu underwent a similar prostate-related procedure, sparking widespread speculation about his health.

The operation was performed by Professor Ofer Govrin, who assured the public that there are “no signs of tumors or cancer,” though the full medical details remain unclear.

As a result, Israeli ministers approved an emergency phone referendum to appoint Justice Minister Yariv Levin as acting prime minister, starting at 6 a.m. and continuing until Netanyahu’s recovery. Defense Minister Yisrael Katz was also assigned to lead the ministerial security affairs committee, marking a temporary reshuffle at the core of Israel’s leadership.

This health crisis comes at a critical point in Netanyahu’s corruption trial, which is set to enter the cross-examination phase next week, following his earlier testimony during defense questioning. Observers now wonder whether the legal process will be affected—or whether Netanyahu will use his condition to delay proceedings or seek public sympathy.

Notably, after a previous surgery, Netanyahu requested a trial postponement—yet was back in parliament voting just days later, prompting the court to delay hearings by two weeks on the condition that he remain at home.

The current situation has stirred debate within Israel about who is truly governing during Netanyahu’s absence, especially amid heightened security tensions and political disarray.

And so the larger question remains: Is this the beginning of a political exit—or just another temporary pause before “Bibi” returns, as he always does?