Netanyahu says he successfully treated early-stage prostate cancer

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Friday that he has undergone successful treatment for early-stage prostate cancer, without specifying when the procedure took place.

In a social media statement released alongside his annual medical report, the 76-year-old leader said a routine checkup had revealed a small malignant tumor, which was later treated with targeted therapy. He said the treatment “removed the problem” and left no remaining trace.

The medical report said Netanyahu is otherwise in good health and confirmed he received radiation therapy for early-stage prostate cancer, though neither the report nor the prime minister provided a timeline for the treatment.

Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, said he delayed the release of his medical report for two months, claiming it was to prevent what he described as Iranian “false propaganda” against Israel.

He also referenced earlier misinformation circulating on social media and Iranian state media during recent tensions, which falsely claimed he had died—claims he publicly rejected by appearing in a video filmed in Jerusalem.

In recent years, Netanyahu has faced several health issues, including prostate surgery in 2024 following a urinary tract infection and the implantation of a pacemaker in 2023. Israel is expected to hold elections by October.