President, suffering fever, back in hospital

JERUSALEM — President Mahmoud Abbas was hospitalized with fever Sunday just days after undergoing surgery on his ear, an official said.

The 83-year-old Abbas has endured a series of recent health scares that have revived anxiety over who will succeed him.

A senior Abbas aide, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with protocol, said the Palestinian leader was diagnosed with a fever Sunday.

Abbas had an ear operation last week and returned to the hospital late Saturday for a follow-up.

Saed Sarahneh, of Istishari Arab hospital, said late Sunday that “all tests are normal and his condition is reassuring.” He did not elaborate.

Another Palestinian official, speaking anonymously because he was discussing the president’s health, said Abbas has pneumonia and is on a respirator and is receiving antibiotics intravenously. He said he is conscious and lucid.

Abbas has a long history of health issues, ranging from heart trouble to prostate cancer. Two years ago, he underwent an emergency heart procedure after suffering exhaustion and chest pains.

Abbas took over as a caretaker leader after the death of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat in 2004, and was elected for what was supposed to be a five-year term the following year. He has remained in firm control since then, refusing to designate a successor while a political split with rival Hamas prevented new elections.