Health of former Israeli PM deteriorating

The condition of comatose former Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon has taken a turn for the worse, according to media reports.

Channel 10 TV said Mr Sharon’s medical condition deteriorated today. It said he is suffering from kidney problems.

Repeated calls to officials at Tel Hashomer hospital in central Israel were not answered, and Mr Sharon’s son, Omri, refused to comment.

In September, Mr Sharon underwent surgery to insert a new feeding tube.

Mr Sharon was at the height of his political power in early 2006 when a devastating stroke incapacitated him.

The 85-year-old has been in a coma since then, connected to a respirator. His family has said that he sometimes opens his eyes and moves his fingers.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has had a polyp removed from his large intestine, his office said today.

The polyp was discovered during what the premier’s office said was a “routine gastro examination”.

Mr Netanyahu’s spokesman refused to provide any more details. In some cases, polyps can become cancerous.

The examination was part of Mr Netanyahu’s annual physical.

In a statement, his office quoted his doctor as saying the Israeli leader is “completely healthy”.