Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, 73, was rushed to Sheba Hospital on Saturday after experiencing dizziness, according to a statement released by his office. The veteran Israeli leader remains in the hospital where he continues to undergo medical tests.
Heat Wave Takes its Toll In a joint statement with the hospital, Netanyahu’s office explained that the Prime Minister had visited the Sea of Galilee – a renowned vacation destination in northern Israel – on Friday. However, with the country currently under a summer heat wave, with temperatures soaring into the mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit), Netanyahu began to feel mild dizziness on Saturday. His doctor advised him to go to Sheba Hospital immediately, despite it being a considerable distance from his residence in the coastal town of Caesaria.
Normal Initial Test Results Initial tests conducted at the hospital came back normal, with doctors ruling out any abnormalities. The preliminary assessment pinpointed dehydration as the likely cause of Netanyahu’s condition. Consequently, medical professionals have recommended that he remain in the hospital for further testing.
Israel’s Longest-Serving Leader Netanyahu has been serving as Israel’s Prime Minister for multiple terms over the course of 15 years. His current far-right government, comprising of religious and ultranationalist parties, assumed office in December of last year.
Netanyahu Faces Challenges on Multiple Fronts
Health Concerns and Political Pressure
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly in generally good health, although he experienced a brief hospitalization last October after feeling unwell during Yom Kippur prayers, a day of fasting for observant Jews.
However, in addition to his health concerns, Netanyahu is also dealing with significant challenges on the political front. He is currently on trial for multiple corruption charges, which have deeply divided the nation. Furthermore, his government’s hard-line policies towards Palestinians have drawn international criticism and strained relations with the United States, Israel’s closest and most important ally.
Protests Against Government Policies
Within Israel itself, tens of thousands of citizens have taken to the streets in weekly demonstrations against Netanyahu’s government. These protests are in response to his plan to overhaul the country’s judiciary system.
Netanyahu’s allies argue that this plan is necessary to limit the power of unelected judges. However, his opponents argue that it would undermine the country’s delicate system of checks and balances, consolidating power in the hands of Netanyahu and his allies.
Wishes for Recovery
In light of Netanyahu’s health issues, Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid expressed his hopes for the Prime Minister’s full recovery and good health. Taking to Twitter, Lapid offered his well wishes, saying, “Feel better.”
As Netanyahu continues to face pressures from various sides, both health-wise and politically, the future remains uncertain for the long-standing Israeli leader.
