:quality(85)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/infobae/2LQ7KFWEZUSIMUJBTEYQIXNUXQ.jpg "Benjamin Netanyahu underwent successful hernia surgery")
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent successful hernia surgery, his office announced on Monday. The 74-year-old leader is said to be in good shape and beginning to recover after the surgery, which took place on Sunday night amid ongoing tensions with Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
During Netanyahu’s absence, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice Yariv Levin took on his duties. This comes at a time when Netanyahu is facing a complicated political situation, exacerbated by the conflict with Hamas and renewed tensions on the border with Lebanon.
On the same night as the operation, thousands of Israelis gathered in Jerusalem to demand Netanyahu’s resignation and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Opposition leader Yair Lapid, relatives of victims and hostages, and protest leaders were among the speakers at the demonstration.
The Israel Business Forum and dozens of technology companies announced their support for the protests by giving employees permission to attend without facing sanctions. Mass protests have been taking place across the country, with calls for attendees to join anti-government demonstrators in the heart of Tel Aviv.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas began with an attack on October 7, resulting in the deaths of over 30,000 people, mostly civilians, according to reports. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas, leading to a military operation in the Gaza Strip.
The situation remains tense in Israel as the political landscape continues to evolve amidst ongoing protests and conflicts in the region.