Professor Dan Gilon, head of Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital�s Echocardiography Unit is treating Maran HaGaon HaRav Chaim Ovadia Yosef Shlita. The senior physician described the gadol hador�s condition late Monday night the eve of 20 Tishrei 5774 as �not good�. The professor is personally overseeing the cardiac aspect of the rav�s care.

Speaking with Ynet the senior physician explained the fluid buildup in the rav�s lungs was progressing and this led to the decision to place him on assisted mechanical respirations. He explained the decision was drastic but they were not left with other alternatives.

�Bottom line, the situation is not good. He is on dialysis and a pacemaker was installed but now, our attention is focused on his breathing. At present, he will be monitored and treated.�

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu on Monday evening telephoned a son, Rishon L�Tzion Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef, inquiring into the condition of the gadol hador.

(YWN � Israel Desk, Jerusalem)