Political Influence Grows at Jerusalem's Hadassah Hospital Amid Controversial Appointments and Favoritism

In July 2026, Israel's Knesset Health Committee approved legislation benefiting Hadassah Medical Center with an annual increase of approximately 40 million shekels. This decision came amid revelations of unprecedented political infiltration within the hospital, which has received 1.5 billion shekels from the government over the past decade to avoid collapse. The legislation's smooth passage surprised Treasury officials and public hospital managers, highlighting the growing political leverage at Hadassah.

The political takeover began in March 2021 when Dalia Itzik, a former Knesset Speaker and minister from the Labor and Kadima parties, was appointed chairperson of Hadassah's board, replacing the hospital's longtime leadership. Itzik's appointment, supported unexpectedly by Shas and Likud ministers despite Treasury opposition, marked a shift toward politicization. She swiftly replaced the hospital CEO and appointed associates, including Noa Mozes, daughter of media figure Tami Mozes-Borovitz, as innovation advisor without a tender.

Hadassah also hired several former Netanyahu advisors, such as communications consultant Ofer Golan and fundraising head Senny Senilevich. Yifat Ben-Hai Segev, previously involved in a high-profile legal case linked to Netanyahu, was appointed Hadassah's marketing VP shortly after testifying in his defense. Ariel Bar-On, a young Likud activist, was named head of the CEO's office and became central to facilitating preferential medical appointments for political affiliates, accelerating access to MRI scans, surgeries, and treatments while ordinary patients face long waits.

The hospital's close ties to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are exemplified by Prof. Alon Pikarski, Hadassah's chief surgeon and Netanyahu's personal doctor during his prostate cancer treatment. Pikarski's status rose with appointments to the national drug basket committee and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems' board, recommended by Likud minister Dudi Amsalem. His wife, Prof. Liat Applebaum, also gained a new department head role after internal opposition to her direct appointment.

Controversies include sexual harassment complaints against Pikarski and efforts by hospital management to suppress doctors' protests against judicial reforms in 2024. Critics warn that political interference undermines Hadassah's medical integrity and public trust. Hadassah's management dismissed the allegations as baseless gossip, emphasizing the hospital's excellence and leadership. Key figures like Itzik and Pikarski defended their roles, rejecting claims of politicization or misconduct.

The episode illustrates how political patronage and favoritism have permeated one of Israel's leading medical institutions, raising concerns about equity in healthcare access and institutional governance.