Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel is scheduled to undergo surgery on Sunday night for a hernia, as announced by his office.
The surgery comes at a time when Mr. Netanyahu is facing increasing international pressure to negotiate a cease-fire and end the conflict in Gaza.
According to his office, Mr. Netanyahu was diagnosed with a hernia during a routine examination the previous night. The decision to proceed with the operation was made in consultation with his doctors, and it will be performed on Sunday evening under anesthesia.
“Justice Minister Yariv Levin will temporarily assume his duties,” the statement added. Mr. Levin is a prominent figure in the prime minister’s Likud party.
Mr. Netanyahu, who had hernia surgery in 2013, has been facing criticism on both the international and domestic fronts for Israel’s handling of the conflict in Gaza. Allies like the United States have expressed concern over the civilian casualties and urged Israel to allow more aid into the region.
In Israel, protesters have been calling for Mr. Netanyahu to prioritize the release of hostages in Gaza and negotiate a cease-fire.
The prime minister has also faced criticism from his far-right coalition partners for any perceived hesitation in the war against Hamas or the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
Just hours before his surgery, Mr. Netanyahu met with families of captive soldiers in Jerusalem and held a news conference to address criticisms of his efforts to bring the hostages home.
Regarding the situation in Rafah, Mr. Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces would enter the city, where many civilians have sought refuge. American officials have warned of a potential humanitarian disaster and called for a detailed plan to protect, shelter, and feed the civilians.
“We are working on evacuating the civilian population and providing humanitarian aid,” Mr. Netanyahu affirmed. “It is necessary and will be done.”
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