The Ex-US president Joe Biden has been diagnosed with cancer in the prostate, his office has said, following tests which confirmed the disease on May 16th, Africanews via the Associated Press reported on May 19th.
Scans found that the disease has reached his bones and doctors have said his cancer is aggressive. The subject of the former president’s health has sparked concern for a long period, particularly during the later stages of him being in office.
Biden prioritised cancer research in his political legacy. He launched the “Cancer Moonshot” initiative in memory of his son Beau, who died of brain cancer in 2015.
Biden’s cancer has a Gleason score of nine, which is close to the top of the scale which measures the intensity of the prostate cancer.
The statement said: “While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management.” It continued, Biden and his family “are reviewing treatment options with his physicians,” CNN reported on May 19th.
Biden, is the oldest US president as of yet. Concerns about his age and health intensified after a faltering debate against Donald Trump in June 2024. Trump continued to criticise Biden, even after he exited the 2024 race, alleging cognitive decline.
During Biden’s presidency, many criticised his strong support for Israel, especially during the conflict in Gaza. The criticism grew as civilian deaths in Gaza increased and the United States refused to halt military aid. In the final weeks of Biden’s term, the US State Department told Congress about plans to give $8 billion in weapons to Israel, the BBC reported on January 4th. The shipment included missiles, shells, and other ammunition.
Since Trump took office, similar concerns have been rising about his stance on Israel. The United States has recently distanced itself from Israel in some areas. Trump did not visit Israel during his recent tour of the Middle East. His ceasefire agreement with Yemen’s Houthis aims to protect maritime security for the United States. However, the deal does not limit Houthi attacks directed at Israel, as reported by Levantis.
Despite these developments, Israel remains a key ally of the United States. On May 6th, the US government announced the merger of the Office of Palestinian Affairs with the embassy in Israel, according to Middle East Eye via Reuters. The change removes the office’s independent status, strengthening Israeli interests while reducing diplomatic support for Palestinians.
During his Middle East trip, Trump broke presidential norms by publicly criticising Biden in numerous political remarks. However, on May 18th, Trump set aside differences to send well-wishes after Biden’s diagnosis was officially announced publicly.
Trump said on Truth Social: “Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis. We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”
Former Vice President Kamala Harris also wished Biden a quick recovery. She posted on X: “Joe is a fighter — and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership. We are hopeful for a full and speedy recovery.”
Africanews via the Associated Press, CNN, Levantis, BBC, Middle East via Reuters
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