Introduction

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent a pacemaker implantation procedure after experiencing a heart arrhythmia. He is currently being observed in the cardiac ward of a hospital in the Tel Aviv area, according to his doctors.

The Procedure

According to Roy Beinart, the arrhythmia center manager at Sheba Medical Center, the pacemaker implantation went smoothly without any complications. Netanyahu’s condition is not life-threatening, and he is feeling great, returning to his daily routine.

Background

Netanyahu had previously been hospitalized for dehydration, which he attributed to not protecting himself properly from a heatwave during his vacation at the Sea of Galilee. As a precaution, he was given a heart monitor a week prior to the pacemaker implantation.

Temporary Arrhythmia

Netanyahu was urgently summoned on Saturday night after a temporary arrhythmia was detected. Before the implantation, he recorded a video expressing his trust in his doctors and stating that he feels great.

Current Status

Netanyahu’s office announced that he is expected to be discharged later in the day. The weekly cabinet meeting was postponed due to his hospitalization.

Domestic Crisis and Protests

In addition to his health concerns, Netanyahu is currently facing a domestic crisis in his sixth term as prime minister. Protests have been gathering momentum against his religious-nationalist coalition’s proposed judicial changes. Tens of thousands of Israelis marched to Jerusalem to rally outside parliament ahead of a vote on a bill that would limit some powers of the Supreme Court.

Controversy and Criticism

Critics argue that the judicial changes aim to undermine court independence, especially given that Netanyahu is facing corruption charges (which he denies). Netanyahu, on the other hand, claims that the reforms would balance out the branches of government.

International Ramifications

The ongoing controversy surrounding the judicial changes has strained relations between Israel and the United States. The tension is further exacerbated by escalating Israeli-Palestinian violence and advancements in Iran’s nuclear program. The United States has encouraged Netanyahu to seek broad agreements regarding any potential judicial reforms.

A Polarizing Figure

Netanyahu, who has held office since 1996, has been a dynamic and polarizing figure in Israeli politics. He has been instrumental in implementing free-market reforms but has shown skepticism towards internationally supported peace negotiations with the Palestinians and efforts to restrict Iran’s nuclear program.

Previous Health Episode

Prior to the recent pacemaker implantation, Netanyahu fell ill during the Jewish fast of Yom Kippur in early October. He was briefly hospitalized before eventually winning a national election.