Benjamin Netanyahu Discloses Secret Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Successful Treatment

JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Friday that he has successfully completed treatment for early-stage prostate cancer. The disclosure was part of his annual medical report, which he released alongside a personal statement on social media declaring, "Thank God, I am healthy."

‎

The 76-year-old leader explained that the cancer was detected during a routine follow-up after his December 2024 surgery for an enlarged prostate. Doctors discovered a malignant tumor measuring less than one centimeter. Following the diagnosis several months ago, Netanyahu opted for targeted radiation therapy, which he finished approximately ten weeks ago. According to his medical team at Hadassah Hospital, the treatment was successful, and recent imaging shows no trace of the disease remaining.

‎

Netanyahu admitted to intentionally withholding the diagnosis from the public for two months. He stated the delay was a strategic decision to avoid providing fuel for "false propaganda" by the Iranian government, which has been engaged in a period of intense conflict and psychological warfare against Israel. In March, rumors and AI-generated misinformation suggesting Netanyahu had died circulated widely on Iranian state media, prompting the Prime Minister to release videos of himself in public to prove his well-being.

‎

This is the latest in a series of health challenges for Israel’s longest-serving prime minister. In July 2023, Netanyahu was fitted with a pacemaker after experiencing a "transient heart block." He also underwent hernia surgery in March 2024. Despite these procedures, the new medical report describes him as being in "excellent physical condition" and fit to continue his official duties.

‎

The announcement comes at a critical time for the region, as Israel continues to navigate complex ceasefires and diplomatic negotiations involving Iran and Lebanon. Netanyahu, who is expected to visit the White House soon, used the revelation to encourage Israeli citizens to stay vigilant about their own health, urging them to "get checked" and follow medical advice.

‎

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.