Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has denied reports that Hamas has provided a list of hostages to be released in a possible cease-fire agreement. It was initially reported that Hamas had approved a list of 34 hostages it may be willing to release in exchange for a cease-fire agreement, contingent on Israel withdrawing from Gaza and enacting a permanent cease-fire. However, Netanyahu’s office stated that Hamas has not forwarded any list of hostages at this time. This comes shortly after Netanyahu underwent surgery for his prostate and defied doctors’ orders by appearing in the Israeli parliament.
Netanyahu, 75, is said to be in good condition and fully conscious following his prostate surgery. This is not the first time Netanyahu has undergone health procedures, as he had hernia surgery earlier in the year and had a pacemaker implanted after suffering dehydration in July 2023. Despite his surgeries, Netanyahu continues to lead the IDF in targeting Iranian terrorists and their proxies in the Middle East. He is also currently testifying in a corruption case against him in Israel, with more testimony expected in the new year.
The Israeli leader has faced health challenges over the past two years, with multiple surgeries and hospital admissions. In March, he underwent hernia surgery under full anesthesia, and Deputy Prime Minister Yariv Levin temporarily assumed his role during the process. Netanyahu also suffered dehydration in July 2023 after visiting the Sea of Galilee without water or sun protection during a heatwave. Following his hospitalization for dehydration, doctors implanted a pacemaker to regulate his heart rate and rhythm.
Despite his health issues, Netanyahu has been actively involved in Israeli politics and military operations. He has been leading the IDF in targeting Iranian terrorists and their proxies in the Middle East, while also facing a corruption case in Israel. Netanyahu has been testifying in the case and is expected to continue doing so in the coming year. His recent surgery for prostate issues did not seem to have a major impact on his ability to fulfill his duties as Prime Minister.
Overall, Netanyahu’s health concerns have not hindered his ability to lead Israel in both political and military matters. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and treatments over the past two years, he has continued to fulfill his role as Prime Minister, targeting threats from Iran and their proxies in the region. His recent surgery for prostate issues did not prevent him from appearing in the Israeli parliament, indicating his commitment to his duties despite his health challenges. Hamas’s reported list of hostages for potential release in a cease-fire agreement has been denied by Netanyahu’s office, indicating ongoing tensions and negotiations in the region.
