TEL AVIV:: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent “successful” hernia surgery, his office updated.

Netanyahu was “in good shape and beginning to recover”, his office said in a statement after the operation on Sunday evening, which was closely watched as the offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip nears six months.

Doctors discovered the hernia on Saturday during a routine checkup, and after consultations, the decision was made for the premier to undergo surgery after completing his daily schedule, his office said.

Thousands of Israelis demonstrated in Jerusalem on Sunday evening to call for Netanyahu’s resignation and the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza.

The health ministry in Gaza has said that the Israeli military had withdrawn tanks and vehicles from the complex housing the besieged territory’s main hospital, Al-Shifa, days after the launch of a major operation on the site.

The ministry said dozens of bodies had been found at the complex, where an AFP journalist and eyewitnesses saw tanks and vehicles pulling out.

The Israeli military, which has described its operation as a “precise” one targeting Hamas fighters, did not immediately confirm any pullout.