Vizhnitz Rebbe’s complex procedure ends successfully after global prayers

A wave of gratitude swept through the Jewish world as doctors at City of Hope Hospital in Los Angeles announced the successful completion of a complex medical procedure for the Vizhnitz Rebbe, Rabbi Yisrael Hager, yesterday (Monday).

The Rebbe, who arrived in L.A. two weeks ago for the meticulously planned treatment, faced a challenging ordeal that gripped his followers with worry. As he entered the operating room, his voice—calmly asking, “So, can we go in?”—echoed through recordings shared among Hasidim, a moment of strength amid uncertainty. Hours later, the medical team confirmed the procedure went as hoped, with the Rebbe opening his eyes in recovery. He now faces a healing period before returning to his home in Bnei Brak’s Kiryat Melech Rav.

The news capped a day of unity and supplication. From Bnei Brak to Brooklyn, Haredi communities rallied for the Rebbe’s refuah shleima. In Kiryat Vizhnitz, thousands packed the beit medrash, reciting Tehillim and learning for three straight hours as the surgery unfolded. The Belz Rebbe, his brother-in-law, led “Mi Sheberach” prayers after every Torah reading, while his brother, the Vizhnitz Rebbe, called on all Hasidim to daven. Jewish leaders—Rabbis Menachem Ernster, Chaim Meir Hager, Masoud Ben Shimon, and more—joined the effort, their presence amplifying the communal plea.

The Rebbe's household urged continued prayers for a full recovery, with the Rebbe’s name, Rabbi Yisrael ben Leah Esther, still on davening lists.

For Vizhnitz, a pillar of Hasidic life, the Rebbe’s health is more than personal—it’s a communal lifeline. As the grandson of the Imrei Chaim and a towering figure in his own right, his steady hand has guided generations. Monday’s outcome offers hope, but the road ahead remains a shared journey for his followers worldwide.

Kikar HaShabbat contributed to this article.