Israeli PM Netanyahu to undergo hernia surgery
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will undergo surgery on Sunday for a hernia. The 74-year-old leader will be under general anaesthetic during the procedure. Netanyahu held a news conference before the surgery, expressing confidence in a successful treatment and quick recovery. Justice Minister Yariv Levin will be standing in for Netanyahu during the operation. Thousands of protesters in Jerusalem marched against the Israeli government and military service exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews. The protests also called for a new election to replace the government and a more equal share in the burden of army service. Netanyahu's popularity has weakened since the war against Hamas in Gaza, and his trial for corruption is ongoing. The government is facing a new crisis over exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jewish men from military service. Netanyahu's cabinet has faced widespread criticism over security failures. The war in Gaza has intensified the friction in society over the exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jewish seminary students from military service. Netanyahu filed an application to the Supreme Court for a 30-day deferment on resolving the issue. Protesters also blocked a main motorway in Tel Aviv, demanding the return of their loved ones held hostage.
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