Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Defies Doctors’ Orders, Shows up for Parliament Vote Despite Recent Surgery
Despite his doctor’s objections, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared in the hall of the Israeli parliament on Tuesday to vote on a crucial budget-related issue, just a day after undergoing surgery to remove his prostate due to a urinary tract infection.
Netanyahu, 75, was accompanied by his personal physician, Dr. Tzvi Berkowitz, and appeared in good spirits as he took his seat for a brief appearance. The Israeli leader underwent the surgery on Sunday night to remove his prostate after the urinary tract infection, which was caused by a benign enlargement of his prostate.
The vote in question is on the “Trapped Profits Law,” which would allow the government to tax so-called “trapped profits,” earnings retained by corporations and multinationals for reinvestment in business growth, infrastructure, and research. Two parties in the governing coalition, the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) and the Otzma Yehudit party, have threatened to vote against the bill if their demands are not met.
The UTJ party, which controls seven Knesset seats, has demanded that the government advance legislation exempting Haredim, or Orthodox Jewish citizens, from military service. The Otzma Yehudit party, also controlling seven seats, is seeking an increased budget for the police, prison service, and firefighting agencies.
Netanyahu’s appearance in parliament has sparked debate and concern, with many questioning his ability to continue taking on the demands of his role given his recent health issues. However, his office announced on Sunday that the surgery “ended successfully and without complications.”
