Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to undergo surgery for hernia found during checkup

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will undergo surgery for a hernia on Sunday, his office announced in a statement. 

Netanyahu’s office said the hernia was found Saturday night during a routine checkup. During the procedure, he will undergo full anesthesia and be unconscious. In the United States, hernias are common, affecting 25% of all men throughout their lifetime. 

Justice Minister Yariv Levin, a close ally of Netanyahu, will serve as acting prime minister temporarily.

“Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Yariv Levin will serve as acting prime minister,” the translated statement read.

While the prime minister is in good health, last year, doctors revealed Netanyahu had a known heart condition after he was fitted with a pacemaker to control his heartbeat.

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The surgery comes as Netanyahu faces protests in Israel, demanding he prioritize hostage release and find a ceasefire agreement. Netanyahu called off an Israeli delegation’s planned visit to Washington D.C. last week after the U.S. did not veto a U.N. resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Israel’s war Cabinet is expected to convene Sunday to discuss ceasefire negotiations, according to the New York Times. At this time, it is unclear if Netanyahu will be able to attend the meeting.