Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu has become the first Israeli citizen to receives Pfizer-Biotech COVID vaccine. Moment later the Israeli health minster also get vaccinated, both the leaders vaccinated in front of live tv to set an example.

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu receives COVID-19 vaccine Jab

Israel on Saturday set new coronavirus rules obliging residents returning to the country from Sunday to self-isolate, ending exemptions for arrivals from a few countries previously classed as "green".

Among countries stripped of their green status are the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, which signed US-sponsored normalisation accords with the Jewish state in September.

Dubai has since become a magnet for Israelis itching to travel who have been deterred from flying to Europe or the United States by the countries' "red" status, meaning Israelis would have to quarantine on their return home.

"Beginning December 20, all countries will be considered red and all those returning will have to isolate for 14 days," the health ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-to-enter-precautionary-virus-quarantine-349774">Israel's Netanyahu to enter precautionary virus quarantine</a>

The ministry did not mention any change in rules for foreign travellers, although Israel's coronavirus cabinet is expected on Sunday to announce further restrictions. &nbsp;

Saturday's statement said Israeli travellers already in green countries and returning home by December 26 would be exempt from the new quarantine rules.

The Jerusalem Post wrote last week that "dozens of Israelis were in isolation in Dubai after testing positive abroad".

It said that "hundreds" were in quarantine in Israel after learning they had returned from the Gulf on a flight found to have carried confirmed Covid-19 cases.&nbsp;

Over 370,000 people in Israel have tested positive for the virus since the first confirmed case was reported in February.

Just over 3,000 people have died, in a country of around nine million.

Israel imposed a second nationwide lockdown in September, when the country had one of the world's highest per capita infection rates.

Restrictions have since been gradually eased but case numbers are again on the rise.

Israel on Saturday set new coronavirus rules obliging residents returning to the country from Sunday to self-isolate, ending exemptions for arrivals from a few countries previously classed as "green".

Israel on Saturday set new coronavirus rules obliging residents returning to the country from Sunday to self-isolate, ending exemptions for arrivals from a few countries previously classed as "green". Among countries stripped of their green status are the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, which signed US-sponsored normalisation accords with the Jewish state in September. Dubai has since become a magnet for Israelis itching to travel who have been deterred from flying to Europe or the United States by the countries' "red" status, meaning Israelis would have to quarantine on their return home. "Beginning December 20, all countries will be considered red and all those returning will have to isolate for 14 days," the health ministry said in a statement on Saturday. Also read| Israel's Netanyahu to enter precautionary virus quarantine The ministry did not mention any change in rules for foreign travellers, although Israel's coronavirus cabinet is expected on Sunday to announce further restrictions. Saturday's statement said Israeli travellers already in green countries and returning home by December 26 would be exempt from the new quarantine rules. The Jerusalem Post wrote last week that "dozens of Israelis were in isolation in Dubai after testing positive abroad". It said that "hundreds" were in quarantine in Israel after learning they had returned from the Gulf on a flight found to have carried confirmed Covid-19 cases. Over 370,000 people in Israel have tested positive for the virus since the first confirmed case was reported in February. Just over 3,000 people have died, in a country of around nine million. Israel imposed a second nationwide lockdown in September, when the country had one of the world's highest per capita infection rates. Restrictions have since been gradually eased but case numbers are again on the rise.

Israelis face tighter travel rules as COVID-19 cases increase

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will self-isolate on Monday after having come into contact with a coronavirus patient, his office said calling it a precautionary step.

Netanyahu tested negative for the virus on Sunday and on Monday, but he will still "enter isolation until Friday following contact with a confirmed coronavirus patient", the statement said.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-start-mass-vaccination-against-coronavirus-this-month-348783">Israel to start mass vaccination against coronavirus this month</a>

Several Israeli media outlets have reported that Netanyahu met last week with a member of his right-wing Likud party, Michael Kleiner, who has subsequently tested positive for the virus.&nbsp;

The statement from the prime minister's office did not provide details regarding Netanyahu's potential exposure.&nbsp;

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gets-first-delivery-of-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-348538">&nbsp;Israel gets first delivery of Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine</a>

Netanyahu was at Israel's Ben Gurion airport last week to welcome a first shipment of Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine.

He declared that the end of the pandemic was "in sight" and offered to take the first jab in a mass vaccination campaign due to start later this month.&nbsp;

Israel, a country of nine million people, has registered more than 358,000 coronavirus cases, including 3003 deaths.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will self-isolate on Monday after having come into contact with a coronavirus patient, his office said calling it a precautionary step.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will self-isolate on Monday after having come into contact with a coronavirus patient, his office said calling it a precautionary step. Netanyahu tested negative for the virus on Sunday and on Monday, but he will still "enter isolation until Friday following contact with a confirmed coronavirus patient", the statement said. Also read| Israel to start mass vaccination against coronavirus this month Several Israeli media outlets have reported that Netanyahu met last week with a member of his right-wing Likud party, Michael Kleiner, who has subsequently tested positive for the virus. The statement from the prime minister's office did not provide details regarding Netanyahu's potential exposure. Also read| Israel gets first delivery of Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine Netanyahu was at Israel's Ben Gurion airport last week to welcome a first shipment of Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine. He declared that the end of the pandemic was "in sight" and offered to take the first jab in a mass vaccination campaign due to start later this month. Israel, a country of nine million people, has registered more than 358,000 coronavirus cases, including 3003 deaths.

Israel's Netanyahu to enter precautionary virus quarantine

Israel and Morocco agreed on Thursday to normalize relations in a deal brokered with U.S. help.

Morocco joins other Arab nations agreeing to normalize Israel ties

The dissolution bill next heads to a parliamentary committee, giving Gantz and Netanyahu a week or two to try to salvage their troubled alliance.

Israel appears headed to 4th election within 2 years

Continuing months-long protests in the country, locals gathered outside the official residence of the&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem seeking his resignation from the post.

The roads outside&nbsp;Netanyahu's residence were jammed by nearly 1,000 protestors who marched demanding his resignation following allegations of corruption.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-accused-of-taking-dirty-laundry-to-white-house-330110">Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused of taking dirty laundry to White House</a>

Locals have been conducting weekly protests outside the PM's residence for the past few months. They are also protesting against the alleged strict and 'not necessary' coronavirus lockdown rules, which has left many locals jobless and without a minimum wage.

Israel has faced two nationwide, strict lockdowns to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. The protestors claim the&nbsp;Netanyahu government has left them high and dry by imposing a lockdown but not providing any financial security. Many claimed massive losses in business and job losses due to the stretched lockdowns. They complain that the government failed to initiate proper processes and planning for providing financial assistance to the sufferers of the lockdown in the pandemic.

These demonstrations have been ongoing for the past six months, and have now shrunk in number — which can be due to negative (or no) outcome and the advent arrival of the winter season that has sent chills down the spine of many people.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/israeli-scientists-go-backward-in-time-by-successfully-reversing-ageing-by-25-years-344816">Israeli scientists go 'backward in time' by successfully reversing ageing by 25 years</a>

While the number of protestors has seemingly decreased, the demonstrators present outside the PM's house were spotted wearing masks. However, people did not maintain the required social distance which attracted some criticism.

Many protestors held Israeli flags, and some were also spotted with pink flags — which has emerged as a popular symbol of protest in the country in the past few months.&nbsp;Others hoisted model submarines, a reference to a scandal over an Israeli purchase of German submarines in which several Netanyahu associates have been implicated.

The protestors are demanding&nbsp;Netanyahu's resignation from his long-reigning position of a Prime Minister, after he has been accused of corruption. The&nbsp;Defence Minister Benny Gantz, meanwhile, has ordered an investigation into this issue in the last week.

Continuing months-long protests in the country, locals gathered outside the official residence of the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem seeking his resignation from the post.

Continuing months-long protests in the country, locals gathered outside the official residence of the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem seeking his resignation from the post. The roads outside Netanyahu's residence were jammed by nearly 1,000 protestors who marched demanding his resignation following allegations of corruption. Also read| Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused of taking dirty laundry to White House Locals have been conducting weekly protests outside the PM's residence for the past few months. They are also protesting against the alleged strict and 'not necessary' coronavirus lockdown rules, which has left many locals jobless and without a minimum wage. Israel has faced two nationwide, strict lockdowns to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. The protestors claim the Netanyahu government has left them high and dry by imposing a lockdown but not providing any financial security. Many claimed massive losses in business and job losses due to the stretched lockdowns. They complain that the government failed to initiate proper processes and planning for providing financial assistance to the sufferers of the lockdown in the pandemic. These demonstrations have been ongoing for the past six months, and have now shrunk in number — which can be due to negative (or no) outcome and the advent arrival of the winter season that has sent chills down the spine of many people. Also read| Israeli scientists go 'backward in time' by successfully reversing ageing by 25 years While the number of protestors has seemingly decreased, the demonstrators present outside the PM's house were spotted wearing masks. However, people did not maintain the required social distance which attracted some criticism. Many protestors held Israeli flags, and some were also spotted with pink flags — which has emerged as a popular symbol of protest in the country in the past few months. Others hoisted model submarines, a reference to a scandal over an Israeli purchase of German submarines in which several Netanyahu associates have been implicated. The protestors are demanding Netanyahu's resignation from his long-reigning position of a Prime Minister, after he has been accused of corruption. The Defence Minister Benny Gantz, meanwhile, has ordered an investigation into this issue in the last week.

Thousands rally outside Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu's residence

Saudi Arabia on Monday rejected Israeli media reports that claimed of talks between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman&nbsp;

"I have seen press reports about a purported meeting between HRH the Crown Prince and Israeli officials during the recent visit by @SecPompeo," wrote Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in a tweet.

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I have seen press reports about a purported meeting between HRH the Crown Prince and Israeli officials during the recent visit by <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a>. No such meeting occurred. The only officials present were American and Saudi.
— فيصل بن فرحان (@FaisalbinFarhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/FaisalbinFarhan/status/1330858232680734723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"No such meeting occurred. The only officials present were American and Saudi."

Earlier, Israeli public broadcaster Kan said on Monday Netanyahu held secret talks with the crown prince in the former's first trip to the kingdom.&nbsp;

The report also said that US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was also present in the meeting.&nbsp;

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Citing unnamed sources, Kan claimed Netanyahu was accompanied by the chief of Mossad spy agency, Yossi Cohen, and the duo "flew yesterday to Saudi Arabia and met Pompeo and MBS in the city of Neom".&nbsp;

Netanyahu's office has not immediately commented on the reports and the US State Department also refused to shed any lights on the developments.&nbsp;

The report led to a wide range of speculations on Israel's recognition by the Arab world as Bahrain, UAF recently struck peace accords with Israel that were brokered by the US.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-netanyahu-meet-the-saudi-crown-prince-344973">WATCH|</a>

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Saudi Arabia on Monday rejected Israeli media reports that claimed of talks between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman "I have seen press reports about a purported meeting between HRH the Crown Prince and Israeli officials during the recent visit by @SecPompeo," wrote Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in a tweet.

Saudi Arabia on Monday rejected Israeli media reports that claimed of talks between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman "I have seen press reports about a purported meeting between HRH the Crown Prince and Israeli officials during the recent visit by @SecPompeo," wrote Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in a tweet. I have seen press reports about a purported meeting between HRH the Crown Prince and Israeli officials during the recent visit by @SecPompeo. No such meeting occurred. The only officials present were American and Saudi. — فيصل بن فرحان (@FaisalbinFarhan) November 23, 2020 × "No such meeting occurred. The only officials present were American and Saudi." Earlier, Israeli public broadcaster Kan said on Monday Netanyahu held secret talks with the crown prince in the former's first trip to the kingdom. The report also said that US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was also present in the meeting. × Citing unnamed sources, Kan claimed Netanyahu was accompanied by the chief of Mossad spy agency, Yossi Cohen, and the duo "flew yesterday to Saudi Arabia and met Pompeo and MBS in the city of Neom". Netanyahu's office has not immediately commented on the reports and the US State Department also refused to shed any lights on the developments. The report led to a wide range of speculations on Israel's recognition by the Arab world as Bahrain, UAF recently struck peace accords with Israel that were brokered by the US. WATCH| ×

Saudi denies reports of talks between Crown Prince Salman and Netanyahu

Saudi Arabia on Monday rejected Israeli media reports that claimed of talks between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Did Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu hold a 'secret meeting' with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman? The Israeli Media says he did, the Saudi Foreign Minister has denied all reports.

Gravitas: Did Netanyahu meet the Saudi Crown Prince?

Saudi FM denies reports of talks between Crown Prince Salman and Netanyahu

Saudi Arabia's foreign minister has denied that the reported meeting with Netanyahu took place, saying "the only officials present were American and Saudi."

Your Story: Will Saudi Arabia and Israel normalise their relations?

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held secret talks in Saudi Arabia Sunday with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, media said, in the first reported trip by an Israeli premier to the kingdom.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who was in Israel last week, was also at the reported talks, a diplomatic correspondent at Israeli public broadcaster Kan said on Monday.&nbsp;

The broadcaster cited unnamed Israeli officials as saying that Netanyahu and the head of the Mossad spy agency, Yossi Cohen, "flew yesterday to Saudi Arabia and met Pompeo and MBS in the city of Neom", referring to the often used initials of Prince Mohammed.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-netanyahu-and-israel-trumps-gifts-kept-on-coming-344662">For Netanyahu and Israel, Trump’s gifts kept on coming</a>

The reported meeting comes weeks after Israel agreed historic US-brokered deals to normalise ties with two Saudi allies in the Gulf, the UAE and Bahrain, pacts known as the Abraham Accords.&nbsp;

Multiple other Israeli media outlets reported on a Netanyahu trip to Saudi Arabia, including prominent diplomatic correspondent Barak Ravid of Walla News and Axios, who reported Netanyahu and Cohen flew on a plane belonging to Israeli businessman Udi Angel.&nbsp;

Ravid also cited flight tracker data that apparently showed Angel's plane leaving Israel at 8:00 pm (1800 GMT) on Sunday, heading to Neom on the Red Sea and returning to Israel five hours later.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-says-us-to-label-exports-from-west-bank-settlements-as-made-in-israel-344096">Pompeo says US to label exports from West Bank settlements as 'Made in Israel'</a>

Netanyahu's office was not immediately available to comment on the reports.&nbsp;

The Saudi royal court and media ministry did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment on the reported meeting between Netanyahu, Prince Mohamed and Pompeo.

Pompeo had travelled to Neom on Sunday from the UAE as part of a Middle East tour. &nbsp;

The Abraham Accords were brokered by outgoing US President Donald Trump's administration.&nbsp;

US and Israeli officials have repeatedly indicated that more Arab states were set to forge ties with Israel. Sudan has agreed to do so in principle.&nbsp;

In late August, Netanyahu said Israel was holding secret talks with multiple Arab countries.

Publicly, Saudi Arabia has said it would stick to the decades-old Arab League position of not having ties with Israel until the Jewish state's conflict with the Palestinians is resolved.&nbsp;

Israeli experts have raised questions about the prospects of expanding the Abraham Accords under US President-elect Joe Biden's administration, particularly with respect to Saudi Arabia. &nbsp;

Trump's administration downplayed the role of human rights in international diplomacy, and in particular was cautious about criticising Saudi Arabia's rights record, notably over the murder by Saudi agents of prominent journalist and Saudi royal critic Jamal Khashoggi.&nbsp;

Multiple Israeli analysts have said that a Biden administration, which will face pressure from the progressive left in the Democratic Party, would suffer a backlash if it pushed for an Israeli-Saudi peace deal without any meaningful rights reforms agreed by Saudi Arabia.

With Trump's term set to end on January 20, some Israeli experts have speculated that Washington would lobby hard for an Israeli-Saudi deal before Biden takes office.&nbsp;

Israel and the Arab Gulf state have engaged in quiet diplomacy for years over their common foe Iran.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held secret talks in Saudi Arabia Sunday with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, media said, in the first reported trip by an Israeli premier to the kingdom.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held secret talks in Saudi Arabia Sunday with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, media said, in the first reported trip by an Israeli premier to the kingdom. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who was in Israel last week, was also at the reported talks, a diplomatic correspondent at Israeli public broadcaster Kan said on Monday. The broadcaster cited unnamed Israeli officials as saying that Netanyahu and the head of the Mossad spy agency, Yossi Cohen, "flew yesterday to Saudi Arabia and met Pompeo and MBS in the city of Neom", referring to the often used initials of Prince Mohammed. Also read| For Netanyahu and Israel, Trump’s gifts kept on coming The reported meeting comes weeks after Israel agreed historic US-brokered deals to normalise ties with two Saudi allies in the Gulf, the UAE and Bahrain, pacts known as the Abraham Accords. Multiple other Israeli media outlets reported on a Netanyahu trip to Saudi Arabia, including prominent diplomatic correspondent Barak Ravid of Walla News and Axios, who reported Netanyahu and Cohen flew on a plane belonging to Israeli businessman Udi Angel. Ravid also cited flight tracker data that apparently showed Angel's plane leaving Israel at 8:00 pm (1800 GMT) on Sunday, heading to Neom on the Red Sea and returning to Israel five hours later. Also read| Pompeo says US to label exports from West Bank settlements as 'Made in Israel' Netanyahu's office was not immediately available to comment on the reports. The Saudi royal court and media ministry did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment on the reported meeting between Netanyahu, Prince Mohamed and Pompeo. Pompeo had travelled to Neom on Sunday from the UAE as part of a Middle East tour. The Abraham Accords were brokered by outgoing US President Donald Trump's administration. US and Israeli officials have repeatedly indicated that more Arab states were set to forge ties with Israel. Sudan has agreed to do so in principle. In late August, Netanyahu said Israel was holding secret talks with multiple Arab countries. Publicly, Saudi Arabia has said it would stick to the decades-old Arab League position of not having ties with Israel until the Jewish state's conflict with the Palestinians is resolved. Israeli experts have raised questions about the prospects of expanding the Abraham Accords under US President-elect Joe Biden's administration, particularly with respect to Saudi Arabia. Trump's administration downplayed the role of human rights in international diplomacy, and in particular was cautious about criticising Saudi Arabia's rights record, notably over the murder by Saudi agents of prominent journalist and Saudi royal critic Jamal Khashoggi. Multiple Israeli analysts have said that a Biden administration, which will face pressure from the progressive left in the Democratic Party, would suffer a backlash if it pushed for an Israeli-Saudi peace deal without any meaningful rights reforms agreed by Saudi Arabia. With Trump's term set to end on January 20, some Israeli experts have speculated that Washington would lobby hard for an Israeli-Saudi deal before Biden takes office. Israel and the Arab Gulf state have engaged in quiet diplomacy for years over their common foe Iran.

Israeli PM held secret talks in Saudi with crown prince, Pompeo: Media

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo deliver a joint statement on Thursday, in Jerusalem. During which Mike Pompeo welcomed Israel-Bahrain deal

US Secretary of state welcomes Israel-Bahrain deal

Thousands of people took to streets in Jerusalem in the latest demonstration against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his handling of the coronavirus crisis and the corruption charges he faces.

Protesters waved Israeli and pink flags. Smaller demonstrations took place elsewhere across the country.

Protesters held placards carryng signs that read, "Saving the country", "fighting corruption" and "Revolution."

Netanyahu has been severely criticised for the mishandling of the coronavirus outbreak and its economic fallout. Also, he has been serving as the prime minister while under indictment on three corruption charges: fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes.

Netanyahu, however, denies wrongdoings in a series of scandals involving billionaire associates and media moguls.

The country is emerging in gradual stages from a month-long lockdown that the government imposed to tamp down infections.

Israel economy, however, continues to take a hit as restriction still in place have kept stores, hotels and restaurants closed.

Israel appeared to have successfully weathered an initial outbreak in the spring. But a hasty reopening after a previous lockdown sent confirmed cases soaring and plunged the country toward new restrictions.

Thousands of people took to streets in Jerusalem in the latest demonstration against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his handling of the coronavirus crisis and the corruption charges he faces.

Thousands of people took to streets in Jerusalem in the latest demonstration against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his handling of the coronavirus crisis and the corruption charges he faces. Protesters waved Israeli and pink flags. Smaller demonstrations took place elsewhere across the country. Protesters held placards carryng signs that read, "Saving the country", "fighting corruption" and "Revolution." Netanyahu has been severely criticised for the mishandling of the coronavirus outbreak and its economic fallout. Also, he has been serving as the prime minister while under indictment on three corruption charges: fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes. Netanyahu, however, denies wrongdoings in a series of scandals involving billionaire associates and media moguls. The country is emerging in gradual stages from a month-long lockdown that the government imposed to tamp down infections. Israel economy, however, continues to take a hit as restriction still in place have kept stores, hotels and restaurants closed. Israel appeared to have successfully weathered an initial outbreak in the spring. But a hasty reopening after a previous lockdown sent confirmed cases soaring and plunged the country toward new restrictions.

Thousands protest in Jerusalem against PM Netanyahu

The United States has agreed to sell top-of-the-line F-35 fighter jets to the United Arab Emirates following its recognition of Israel, potentially shifting the regional power balance, a lawmaker said Thursday.

President Donald Trump's administration informally gave a required notification to&nbsp;Congress&nbsp;on the sale, which could "significantly change the military balance in the Gulf and affect Israel's military edge," said Representative Eliot Engel, a Democrat who leads the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

The United Arab Emirates, which has been increasingly assertive in the region, including in Yemen and Libya,&nbsp;sought the advanced warplanes as it spoke to the United States ahead of its landmark recognition of Israel last month.

The normalization,&nbsp;followed by similar moves by Bahrain and Sudan, was a diplomatic coup for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but the Jewish state has also long opposed US sales of top-end warplanes to any Arab states including Egypt and Jordan, which already have peace treaties with Israel.

But Netanyahu indicated last week that Israel would not object to the UAE deal after Defense Minister Benny Gantz, his uneasy coalition partner, received assurances during a trip to the Pentagon that Israel would maintain its military edge.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper was visiting Israel on Thursday for talks with Gantz about bolstering the US ally's military capacities.

A State Department official declined to confirm the UAE deal, saying that it does not comment on notifications to&nbsp;Congress.

The notification comes five days before US elections in which Trump is trailing in published polls to Democrat Joe Biden.

Congress, where the Democrats control the House of Representatives and are seen as having a chance of winning the Senate, has the power to block the UAE sale.

"The export of this aircraft requires very careful consideration and&nbsp;Congress&nbsp;must analyze all the ramifications.&nbsp;Rushing these sales is not in anyone's interest," Engel said.

The United States has agreed to sell top-of-the-line F-35 fighter jets to the United Arab Emirates following its recognition of Israel, potentially shifting the regional power balance, a lawmaker said Thursday.

The United States has agreed to sell top-of-the-line F-35 fighter jets to the United Arab Emirates following its recognition of Israel, potentially shifting the regional power balance, a lawmaker said Thursday. President Donald Trump's administration informally gave a required notification to Congress on the sale, which could "significantly change the military balance in the Gulf and affect Israel's military edge," said Representative Eliot Engel, a Democrat who leads the House Foreign Affairs Committee. The United Arab Emirates, which has been increasingly assertive in the region, including in Yemen and Libya, sought the advanced warplanes as it spoke to the United States ahead of its landmark recognition of Israel last month. The normalization, followed by similar moves by Bahrain and Sudan, was a diplomatic coup for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but the Jewish state has also long opposed US sales of top-end warplanes to any Arab states including Egypt and Jordan, which already have peace treaties with Israel. But Netanyahu indicated last week that Israel would not object to the UAE deal after Defense Minister Benny Gantz, his uneasy coalition partner, received assurances during a trip to the Pentagon that Israel would maintain its military edge. US Defense Secretary Mark Esper was visiting Israel on Thursday for talks with Gantz about bolstering the US ally's military capacities. A State Department official declined to confirm the UAE deal, saying that it does not comment on notifications to Congress. The notification comes five days before US elections in which Trump is trailing in published polls to Democrat Joe Biden. Congress, where the Democrats control the House of Representatives and are seen as having a chance of winning the Senate, has the power to block the UAE sale. "The export of this aircraft requires very careful consideration and Congress must analyze all the ramifications. Rushing these sales is not in anyone's interest," Engel said.

US plans sales of top-end fighter jets to UAE: Lawmaker

Thousands of Israelis have once again demonstrated to demand Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s resignation, saying he is unfit to rule while on trial for corruption charges and accusing him of mismanaging the response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Israel: Thousands protest against PM Netanyahu despite lockdown

Protesters took to the streets in Israel over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's move to limit demonstrations due to the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-continues-protesting-against-netanyahus-coronavirus-restrictions-332340">Also Read:&nbsp;Israel continues protesting against Netanyahu's coronavirus restrictions</a>

The protesters hit out against the government's handling of the coronavirus crisis even as a new law recently approved by Parliament banned citizens from holding demonstrations more than 1 km from their homes amid strict coronavirus restrictions.

Large scale protests were witnessed in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem with scattered demonstrations elsewhere in the country. Isreal reportedly has one of the world's highest coronavirus infection rates per capita as the country struggles to fight the second wave of infections.&nbsp;

Israel currently has 280,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and over 1,900 fatalities.

The protesters clashed with police in some areas with placards “Bibi, you are destroying my future” and "Go away" as police said the demonstrators were not observing social distancing norms and were putting others at risk as protests&nbsp;swelled in the Israeli capital Tel Aviv.

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Police claimed the march was "illegal" as protesters took the main streets in thousands despite COVID-19 restrictions in place. Reports said the protesters broke through a barricade in Tel Aviv hurting several cops.

Reports claimed&nbsp;some tried to protest in front of Netanyahu’s private residence but were resisted by police action.

Anti-Netanyahu protests have been going on since July to denounce the Israeli prime minister's handling of the virus and the economy.

Protesters took to the streets in Israel over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's move to limit demonstrations due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also Read: Israel continues protesting against Netanyahu's coronavirus restrictions The protesters hit out against the government's handling of the coronavirus crisis even as a new law recently approved by Parliament banned citizens from holding demonstrations more than 1 km from their homes amid strict coronavirus restrictions.

Protesters took to the streets in Israel over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's move to limit demonstrations due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also Read: Israel continues protesting against Netanyahu's coronavirus restrictions The protesters hit out against the government's handling of the coronavirus crisis even as a new law recently approved by Parliament banned citizens from holding demonstrations more than 1 km from their homes amid strict coronavirus restrictions. Large scale protests were witnessed in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem with scattered demonstrations elsewhere in the country. Isreal reportedly has one of the world's highest coronavirus infection rates per capita as the country struggles to fight the second wave of infections. Israel currently has 280,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and over 1,900 fatalities. The protesters clashed with police in some areas with placards “Bibi, you are destroying my future” and "Go away" as police said the demonstrators were not observing social distancing norms and were putting others at risk as protests swelled in the Israeli capital Tel Aviv. Police claimed the march was "illegal" as protesters took the main streets in thousands despite COVID-19 restrictions in place. Reports said the protesters broke through a barricade in Tel Aviv hurting several cops. Reports claimed some tried to protest in front of Netanyahu’s private residence but were resisted by police action. Anti-Netanyahu protests have been going on since July to denounce the Israeli prime minister's handling of the virus and the economy.

Anti-Netanyahu protests erupt in Israel amid coronavirus restrictions

Israelis are continuing anti-lockdown protests and are opposing the way the&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has handled the pandemic.

Several protests were observed in&nbsp;Tel Aviv on Saturday where the protestors were spotted wearing face masks, but the local police claimed the participants were intentionally flouting all social distancing rules.

The locals are angry that the government has initiated another lockdown without any financial aid for those running their own businesses, which is negatively affecting them. The police has not stated an estimate number of the participants of these protests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-passes-legislation-to-ban-mass-protests-during-lockdown-331570">Also read:&nbsp;Israel passes legislation to ban mass protests during lockdown</a>

These protests have come after the Parliament imposed a law that restricts the number of participants in a public agthering/protest. While the Parliament and the government claims it is to help contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, locals feels it is yet another way to silence all voices against&nbsp;Netanyahu.

This blowout of protests amplified after the&nbsp;Tourism Minister Asaf Zamir quit the&nbsp;coalition government and alleged the Prime Minister of being more concerned about his ongoing corruption trial, rather than saving his people from the ongoing pandemic.

"I am not willing to put up for another minute with a reality in which the right to demonstrate is restricted," he wrote. "Therefore I must follow my conscience."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-observes-protests-after-second-lockdown-without-economic-aid-is-initiated-330563">Also read:&nbsp;Israel observes protests after second lockdown without economic aid is initiated</a>

While the party leader&nbsp;Benny Gantz found an immediate replacement for Zamir, he also stated that him and his colleagues "joined the government to rein in the coronavirus, not to curb democracy or the rule of law."

While the Jerusalem media claimed that nearly 2,000 people protested outside the PM's official residence, the police has not issued any statement on the number of participants or arrests made. They have just claimed to have arrested "hundreds" of participants for flouting the social distancing rules.

With over 260,000 coronavirus infections confirmed so far and over 1,600 deaths in a population of nine million, Israel currently has the world's highest weekly infection rate per capita.

Israelis are continuing anti-lockdown protests and are opposing the way the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has handled the pandemic. Several protests were observed in Tel Aviv on Saturday where the protestors were spotted wearing face masks, but the local police claimed the participants were intentionally flouting all social distancing rules.

Israelis are continuing anti-lockdown protests and are opposing the way the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has handled the pandemic. Several protests were observed in Tel Aviv on Saturday where the protestors were spotted wearing face masks, but the local police claimed the participants were intentionally flouting all social distancing rules. The locals are angry that the government has initiated another lockdown without any financial aid for those running their own businesses, which is negatively affecting them. The police has not stated an estimate number of the participants of these protests. Also read: Israel passes legislation to ban mass protests during lockdown These protests have come after the Parliament imposed a law that restricts the number of participants in a public agthering/protest. While the Parliament and the government claims it is to help contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, locals feels it is yet another way to silence all voices against Netanyahu. This blowout of protests amplified after the Tourism Minister Asaf Zamir quit the coalition government and alleged the Prime Minister of being more concerned about his ongoing corruption trial, rather than saving his people from the ongoing pandemic. "I am not willing to put up for another minute with a reality in which the right to demonstrate is restricted," he wrote. "Therefore I must follow my conscience." Also read: Israel observes protests after second lockdown without economic aid is initiated While the party leader Benny Gantz found an immediate replacement for Zamir, he also stated that him and his colleagues "joined the government to rein in the coronavirus, not to curb democracy or the rule of law." While the Jerusalem media claimed that nearly 2,000 people protested outside the PM's official residence, the police has not issued any statement on the number of participants or arrests made. They have just claimed to have arrested "hundreds" of participants for flouting the social distancing rules. With over 260,000 coronavirus infections confirmed so far and over 1,600 deaths in a population of nine million, Israel currently has the world's highest weekly infection rate per capita.

Israel continues protesting against Netanyahu's coronavirus restrictions

Israel's parliament has passed a new law according to which mass protests during the country's second nationwide coronavirus lockdown would be banned.

Demonstrators will be confined to groups of up to 20 people and must stay within 1 km (0.6 miles) of their homes.

This rule comes in the aftermath of weeks, in which thousands of people gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's official residence in Jerusalem to demand he resigned over corruption allegations and his handling of the pandemic.&nbsp;

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Netanyahu has, however, denied any wrongdoing.

And the protests have continued despite a dramatic resurgence of coronavirus cases in the country.

The protests have just not been unsafe for the prime minister, but have also risked the lives of so many people. An entire democracy continues to suffer.

Israel has reported more than 237,000 coronavirus cases and 1,528 deaths, and by passing the law, it has set a benchmark for democracies worldwide.

Israel's parliament has passed a new law according to which mass protests during the country's second nationwide coronavirus lockdown would be banned. Demonstrators will be confined to groups of up to 20 people and must stay within 1 km (0.

Israel's parliament has passed a new law according to which mass protests during the country's second nationwide coronavirus lockdown would be banned. Demonstrators will be confined to groups of up to 20 people and must stay within 1 km (0.6 miles) of their homes. This rule comes in the aftermath of weeks, in which thousands of people gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's official residence in Jerusalem to demand he resigned over corruption allegations and his handling of the pandemic. × Netanyahu has, however, denied any wrongdoing. And the protests have continued despite a dramatic resurgence of coronavirus cases in the country. The protests have just not been unsafe for the prime minister, but have also risked the lives of so many people. An entire democracy continues to suffer. Israel has reported more than 237,000 coronavirus cases and 1,528 deaths, and by passing the law, it has set a benchmark for democracies worldwide.

Israel passes legislation to ban mass protests during lockdown

Lebanon to hold talks with Israel on disputed border issue. The talks will be mediated by the United Nations on the disputed land and maritime borders.

Lebanon to hold talks with Israel on disputed border issue

A series of fresh protests broke out all over the country after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu initiated a second series of stricter lockdown in the country to contain the widespread of the novel coronavirus.

The protestors took to streets in their cars blocking roads and bridges, demanding immediate resignation of&nbsp;Netanyahu — a PM who is on trial for three corruption charges.

A second round of lockdown was initiated on September 18 with the aim&nbsp;to bring down the world's highest coronavirus infection rate per capita. However, the restrictions were made stricter two days ago, imposing a ban on borders and limiting indoor prayers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-accused-of-taking-dirty-laundry-to-white-house-330110">Also read:&nbsp;Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused of taking dirty laundry to White House</a>

However,&nbsp;lawmakers further blocked a government proposal which was hoping to limit the protest gatherings to 20 in a group. As per this proposal, the protestors were only to be allowed to protest within a kilometre of their residence. However, the lawmakers' decision was not appreciated by the PM who called it "the populist decision in parliament to cancel the limitations the government imposed after we saw the rise in the infections."

Israelis marched down to Netanyahu's residence where the demanded the PM to hand over his resignation and attend to the trials on the charges of bribery, fraud and&nbsp;breach of trust — allegations that&nbsp;Netanyahu has constantly declined.

Protestors said they are ready to protest to gain back their freedom and let the world know that their government shut down the country without planning any economic aids for the common people.

Israel has recorded over 225,000 infections and 1,417 deaths out of a population of nine million, with more than 8,200 new cases on Friday alone.

A series of fresh protests broke out all over the country after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu initiated a second series of stricter lockdown in the country to contain the widespread of the novel coronavirus.

A series of fresh protests broke out all over the country after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu initiated a second series of stricter lockdown in the country to contain the widespread of the novel coronavirus. The protestors took to streets in their cars blocking roads and bridges, demanding immediate resignation of Netanyahu — a PM who is on trial for three corruption charges. A second round of lockdown was initiated on September 18 with the aim to bring down the world's highest coronavirus infection rate per capita. However, the restrictions were made stricter two days ago, imposing a ban on borders and limiting indoor prayers. Also read: Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused of taking dirty laundry to White House However, lawmakers further blocked a government proposal which was hoping to limit the protest gatherings to 20 in a group. As per this proposal, the protestors were only to be allowed to protest within a kilometre of their residence. However, the lawmakers' decision was not appreciated by the PM who called it "the populist decision in parliament to cancel the limitations the government imposed after we saw the rise in the infections." Israelis marched down to Netanyahu's residence where the demanded the PM to hand over his resignation and attend to the trials on the charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust — allegations that Netanyahu has constantly declined. Protestors said they are ready to protest to gain back their freedom and let the world know that their government shut down the country without planning any economic aids for the common people. Israel has recorded over 225,000 infections and 1,417 deaths out of a population of nine million, with more than 8,200 new cases on Friday alone.

Israel observes protests after second lockdown without economic aid is initiated

Israel's Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of a crime that might not have been brought up ever before.

Reports claims Nethanyahu likes the White House to take care of his dirt...quite literally.

It has been revealed that&nbsp;Benjamin and Sara Netanyahu take majority of their dirty laundry to the White House to avail the free dry cleaning services.

The habit was noticed by the White House staff after it kept happening during every visit. “The Netanyahus are the only ones who bring actual suitcases of dirty laundry for us to clean,” the paper quoted an unnamed US official as saying. “After multiple trips, it became clear this was intentional.”

The report was published in the US' local paper Washington Post.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trump-russian-president-vladimir-putin-nominated-for-nobel-prize-330101">Also read:&nbsp;After Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin nominated for Nobel Prize</a>

Turns out, this is an old habit of the Israeli couple. In 2018,&nbsp;Sara Netanyahu was alleged of packing nearly five&nbsp;suitcases worth of laundry for state trips. Her husband, the much-criticised Prime Minister of Israel, had years ago successfully launched a legal bid to keep his domestic laundry bills private.

Nethanyahu's office, howwever, has denied these accusations and said only the clothes worn for public meetings are dry cleaned during the state trips.

Talking about Netanyahu’s recent US visit&nbsp;to normalise relations with the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, the officials said, “On this visit, for example, there was no dry cleaning, only a couple of shirts were laundered for the public meeting, and the prime minister’s suit and Mrs Netanyahu’s dress were ironed also for the public meeting,” the embassy statement said.

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“Oh yes, a pair of pyjamas that the prime minister wore on the 12-hour flight from Israel to Washington was also laundered,” the statement continued.

While the PM's office has denied the accusations repeatedly, the White House staff during the Obama and trump administration have recalled and confirmed incidents where the couple have sent suitcases filled with soiled clothes.

The&nbsp;Netanyahus are infamous for misusing state resources, whether it is their own state or some other country. The PM is on trial for&nbsp;three corruption cases, and hise&nbsp;wife has been accused of misusing public funds to host gradeur-style meals, even though she has been provided with a cooking team for her own house by the state.

No statement has been issued by the White House yet.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of a crime that might not have been brought up ever before. Reports claims Nethanyahu likes the White House to take care of his dirt.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of a crime that might not have been brought up ever before. Reports claims Nethanyahu likes the White House to take care of his dirt...quite literally. It has been revealed that Benjamin and Sara Netanyahu take majority of their dirty laundry to the White House to avail the free dry cleaning services. The habit was noticed by the White House staff after it kept happening during every visit. “The Netanyahus are the only ones who bring actual suitcases of dirty laundry for us to clean,” the paper quoted an unnamed US official as saying. “After multiple trips, it became clear this was intentional.” The report was published in the US' local paper Washington Post. Also read: After Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin nominated for Nobel Prize Turns out, this is an old habit of the Israeli couple. In 2018, Sara Netanyahu was alleged of packing nearly five suitcases worth of laundry for state trips. Her husband, the much-criticised Prime Minister of Israel, had years ago successfully launched a legal bid to keep his domestic laundry bills private. Nethanyahu's office, howwever, has denied these accusations and said only the clothes worn for public meetings are dry cleaned during the state trips. Talking about Netanyahu’s recent US visit to normalise relations with the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, the officials said, “On this visit, for example, there was no dry cleaning, only a couple of shirts were laundered for the public meeting, and the prime minister’s suit and Mrs Netanyahu’s dress were ironed also for the public meeting,” the embassy statement said. × “Oh yes, a pair of pyjamas that the prime minister wore on the 12-hour flight from Israel to Washington was also laundered,” the statement continued. While the PM's office has denied the accusations repeatedly, the White House staff during the Obama and trump administration have recalled and confirmed incidents where the couple have sent suitcases filled with soiled clothes. The Netanyahus are infamous for misusing state resources, whether it is their own state or some other country. The PM is on trial for three corruption cases, and hise wife has been accused of misusing public funds to host gradeur-style meals, even though she has been provided with a cooking team for her own house by the state. No statement has been issued by the White House yet.

Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused of taking dirty laundry to White House

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of carrying bags of dirty laundry on state trips just to get them dry cleaned on another country's expense. Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you more stories about leaders who embarrassed themselves.

Gravitas: Netanyahu accused of bringing his dirty laundry to Washington

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of a crime that might not have been brought up ever before. It has been revealed that Benjamin and Sara Netanyahu take majority of their dirty laundry to the White House to avail the free dry cleaning services.

Israel's PM Netanyahu accused of taking dirty laundry to White House