Sheba Medical Center director withdraws candidacy for Israeli Health Ministry post

Prof. Yitzchak Kreiss, director of Sheba Medical Center, withdrew his candidacy for acting director-general of the Israeli Health Ministry on November 15, 2026, citing legal difficulties in resolving conflict-of-interest issues. Health Minister Haim Katz thanked Kreiss and respected his decision.

Prof. Yitzhak Kreiss, director of Sheba Medical Center, informed Health Minister Haim Katz this morning (Sunday) of his withdrawal from the candidacy for the position of interim director general of the Ministry of Health. The decision was made after examining the legal and managerial implications of the appointment, and due to difficulties in formulating a conflict of interest arrangement that would allow the process to be completed within a reasonable timeframe. Last week, Minister Katz approached Kreiss with a request to temporarily fill the role, aiming to ensure functional continuity and managerial stability in the ministry, and Kreiss agreed to the request. However, after reviewing the legal aspects, it became clear that the complexity involved in regulating the conflict of interest did not allow the appointment to be completed in a timely manner. Health Minister Katz thanked Kreiss for his willingness and said he respects his decision and his commitment to continuing to lead Sheba Medical Center.