Abbas Undergoes Medical Treatment in Germany

Palestinian Authority (PA) Mahmoud Abbas commenced his official visit in Germany on Thursday and met with Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Source in Ramallah reported that Abbas has been in the country for several days and is expected to undergo a series of medical tests and treatments.

In recent months, he has been treated several times in a hospital in Ramallah and a source in Ramallah told TPS that medical equipment has been installed in his home to treat a state of general fatigue from which he often suffers.

A number of doctors from several countries recently visited him in the PA and recommended he undergo a series of procedures.

The almost 84-year-old leader is a heavy smoker and has previously suffered from respiratory-related illnesses. Abbas has also contended with bouts with cancer.

Abbas’ ailing health has been the cause of speculation as to who will assume the PA leadership and how it will affect Israel and the Middle East. In the event that Abbas could no longer carry out his duties, he would be replaced by his deputy, Mahmoud al-Aloul.