Benjamin Netanyahu Falls Ill Amid Political Crisis, Diagnosed With Food Poisoning

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been diagnosed with food poisoning, resulting in intestinal inflammation and dehydration, his office confirmed on Sunday. The 75-year-old leader, who fell ill overnight, is currently receiving intravenous fluids as part of his treatment.

According to an official statement, Netanyahu will rest at home for the next three days under medical supervision but will continue to oversee state affairs remotely. "In accordance with his doctors' instructions, the prime minister will rest at home for the next three days and will manage state affairs from there," the statement read.

Netanyahu has a medical history that includes being fitted with a pacemaker in 2023. He also underwent prostate surgery in December after being diagnosed with a urinary tract infection.

The news of Netanyahu's illness comes amid political turbulence in Israel. Just days ago, his ruling coalition suffered a significant setback when the ultra-Orthodox Shas party withdrew from the government, stripping it of its parliamentary majority.

Despite the loss, Netanyahu's office has maintained that he will continue to lead the government, emphasizing that the ongoing summer parliamentary recess provides an opportunity to manage the situation. A statement from the Shas party clarified its stance, saying, "We are not aiming to destabilise the coalition. On key legislative matters, we may still vote alongside the government."

With inputs from agencies.