Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was admitted to the hospital on Saturday due to dizziness caused by dehydration. However, his office stated that he was in good condition and there were no signs of a potential transfer of power.
Energy Minister Israel Katz, a member of Netanyahu's Likud party, reassured the public that the prime minister would soon return to work, though the specific timing was not mentioned. In a video message recorded at the hospital, Netanyahu expressed his gratitude and assured everyone that he was feeling well. He advised people to spend less time in the sun, drink more water, and wished everyone a good week ahead.
Netanyahu, who is Israel's longest-serving leader, explained that he had been on holiday at the Sea of Galilee during a heatwave when he experienced the symptoms. He was then taken to Sheba Hospital in Tel Hashomer, close to his residence in Caesarea. Reports indicate that he was fully conscious during his journey to the hospital and walked into the emergency room. While there were mentions of chest pain, there was no official confirmation. He was not sedated, and no procedures were being conducted to declare him incapacitated.
According to Netanyahu's office, he was admitted to the hospital based on his physician's recommendation after complaining of light dizziness. Initial tests showed no abnormalities, and the preliminary diagnosis pointed to dehydration. Further routine tests were being carried out, and his condition was initially reported as fine.
In the event of an emergency succession, it remains unclear who would replace Netanyahu. During Netanyahu's foreign trips, Justice Minister Yariv Levin has acted as his stand-in.
Netanyahu has been a dynamic and controversial figure since his election as the head of the conservative Likud party in 1996. He has spearheaded free-market reforms in Israel while expressing skepticism towards internationally-backed peace efforts with the Palestinians and negotiations to limit Iran's nuclear program.
Currently, Netanyahu is facing domestic criticism over his plans to overhaul the judiciary, which has triggered unprecedented protests from Israelis concerned about the future independence of the courts. Additionally, he is currently on trial after being indicted in three corruption cases. Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing and considers the trial to be a politically motivated witch-hunt.
Recently, hundreds of military reservists have threatened to refuse call-up orders in protest against government reforms. Israeli TV aired audio of Netanyahu shouting during a cabinet session, expressing his disbelief at such insubordination.
Avner, one of Netanyahu's sons, was seen leaving the hospital with a companion, both of them appearing in good spirits. Yair Lapid, the centrist leader of the opposition, tweeted his wishes for the prime minister's full recovery and good health.
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