Israel is wary of the administration's intent to reenter the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal and has long opposed the agreement.

Israel criticises Biden administration's bid to rejoin Iran Nuclear Deal

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on the safety of Israeli diplomats in the aftermath of a blast near its mission in Delhi. The blast took place on Friday evening near the Israeli embassy in the high-profile area of Delhi even as beating retreat was underway just 20 minutes away from the site.

Condemning the "terror attack" near the Israeli embassy, PM Modi "assured" Prime Minister Netanyahu that India "accords the highest importance to the safety and security of Israeli diplomats and premises", and would "deploy all its resources to find and punish the perpetrators", the Indian readout said. &nbsp;

The Israeli PM thanked Indian government for its efforts to "safeguard Israeli representatives in the aftermath of the terrorist event" near the Israeli Embassy in India, the Israeli readout highlighted.&nbsp;

Both leaders during the talks expressed satisfaction about the close coordination between Indian and Israeli security agencies in this context. The minor blast resulted in little damage and no casualties were reported. A letter was recovered after the incident that mentioned the assassination of 2 high profile Iranians, &nbsp;Major general Qassam Soleimani and nuclear scientist Mohsin Fakhrizadeh. Local authorities in Delhi are probing all angles.

The Israeli readout said that PM Modi noted "that his country is committed to the security of our people" and added, "that India would continue to cooperate with Israel in the fight against terrorism.".&nbsp;

During the talks, both leaders also spoke on COVID cooperation. Indian PM congratulated Prime Minister Netanyahu on the successful vaccines operation in Israel and both discussed possible cooperation in the production and supply of vaccines to Israel. Mutual recognition of certificates of vaccination was also discussed during the talks.&nbsp;

Hours after the blast on Friday, foreign ministers and national security advisors of India and Israel spoke to each other.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on the safety of Israeli diplomats in the aftermath of a blast near its mission in Delhi.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on the safety of Israeli diplomats in the aftermath of a blast near its mission in Delhi. The blast took place on Friday evening near the Israeli embassy in the high-profile area of Delhi even as beating retreat was underway just 20 minutes away from the site. Condemning the "terror attack" near the Israeli embassy, PM Modi "assured" Prime Minister Netanyahu that India "accords the highest importance to the safety and security of Israeli diplomats and premises", and would "deploy all its resources to find and punish the perpetrators", the Indian readout said. The Israeli PM thanked Indian government for its efforts to "safeguard Israeli representatives in the aftermath of the terrorist event" near the Israeli Embassy in India, the Israeli readout highlighted. Both leaders during the talks expressed satisfaction about the close coordination between Indian and Israeli security agencies in this context. The minor blast resulted in little damage and no casualties were reported. A letter was recovered after the incident that mentioned the assassination of 2 high profile Iranians, Major general Qassam Soleimani and nuclear scientist Mohsin Fakhrizadeh. Local authorities in Delhi are probing all angles. The Israeli readout said that PM Modi noted "that his country is committed to the security of our people" and added, "that India would continue to cooperate with Israel in the fight against terrorism.". During the talks, both leaders also spoke on COVID cooperation. Indian PM congratulated Prime Minister Netanyahu on the successful vaccines operation in Israel and both discussed possible cooperation in the production and supply of vaccines to Israel. Mutual recognition of certificates of vaccination was also discussed during the talks. Hours after the blast on Friday, foreign ministers and national security advisors of India and Israel spoke to each other.

PM Modi assures Israel PM Netanyahu on safety of Israeli diplomats in India

After several international governments and organisations urged the Israel government to make sure the Palestinians are vaccinated, Israel's defence ministry has announced that it will be sending thousands of doses to the Palestinian authority.

Nearly 5,000 doses of coronavirus vaccines will be sent to the Palestinian Authority to make sure medical personnel can be inoculated.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-killed-by-israel-army-in-attempted-knife-attack-in-west-bank-360403">Palestinian killed by Israel army in attempted knife attack in West Bank</a>

"I confirm we are going to send 5,000 vaccines to medical teams in the Palestinian Authority," said a spokesperson for Defence Minister Benny Gantz.

The Palestinian Authority, based in the West Bank city of Ramallah, has not publically sought help from the Israel government for the COVID-19 vaccines.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-in-war-with-very-low-intelligence-says-israel-minister-on-coronavirus-vaccination-359920">We are in war with very low intelligence, says Israel minister on coronavirus vaccination</a>

However, the Palestine Liberation Organization has alleged Israel for the shortage of vaccines and has urged international organisations to "hold Israel to account" and has also requested the international community to ensure all Palestinians living under Israeli occupation get properly vaccinated.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority has announced plans to procure vaccines from four providers, including Russia's Sputnik V.

The United Nations and Jordan's King Abdullah II also urged the Netanyahu-led government to provide vaccination to the 2.8 million Palestinians in the West Bank and two million in Gaza.

After several international governments and organisations urged the Israel government to make sure the Palestinians are vaccinated, Israel's defence ministry has announced that it will be sending thousands of doses to the Palestinian authority.

After several international governments and organisations urged the Israel government to make sure the Palestinians are vaccinated, Israel's defence ministry has announced that it will be sending thousands of doses to the Palestinian authority. Nearly 5,000 doses of coronavirus vaccines will be sent to the Palestinian Authority to make sure medical personnel can be inoculated. Also read| Palestinian killed by Israel army in attempted knife attack in West Bank "I confirm we are going to send 5,000 vaccines to medical teams in the Palestinian Authority," said a spokesperson for Defence Minister Benny Gantz. The Palestinian Authority, based in the West Bank city of Ramallah, has not publically sought help from the Israel government for the COVID-19 vaccines. Also read| We are in war with very low intelligence, says Israel minister on coronavirus vaccination However, the Palestine Liberation Organization has alleged Israel for the shortage of vaccines and has urged international organisations to "hold Israel to account" and has also requested the international community to ensure all Palestinians living under Israeli occupation get properly vaccinated. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority has announced plans to procure vaccines from four providers, including Russia's Sputnik V. The United Nations and Jordan's King Abdullah II also urged the Netanyahu-led government to provide vaccination to the 2.8 million Palestinians in the West Bank and two million in Gaza.

Israel to send 5,000 vaccine doses to Palestinians: Health ministry

Israeli army said on Sunday that it had killed a Palestinian who carried out knife attack in West Bank.

"A knife attack was reported at the Gush Etzion junction, south of Bethlehem," the army said in a statement. "The attacker was neutralised."

The incident took place at a bus station. Israeli military said that the the attacker ran at the soldiers holding a stick with three knive attached to it. No military personnel were wounded in the attack.

Gush Etzion, the area where the incident took place is a bloc of two dozen Israeli settlements and outposts near Bethlehem

There is frequent friction at the nearby junction, which has been the site of numerous so-called lone wolf Palestinian attacks. 
Israel has occupied the West Bank since the 1967 Six-Day War.&nbsp;

There are currently about 475,000 Jewish settlers in the West Bank living in communities considered illegal by most of the international community, alongside some 2.8 million Palestinians.

(With agency inputs)

Israeli army said on Sunday that it had killed a Palestinian who carried out knife attack in West Bank. "A knife attack was reported at the Gush Etzion junction, south of Bethlehem," the army said in a statement.

Israeli army said on Sunday that it had killed a Palestinian who carried out knife attack in West Bank. "A knife attack was reported at the Gush Etzion junction, south of Bethlehem," the army said in a statement. "The attacker was neutralised." The incident took place at a bus station. Israeli military said that the the attacker ran at the soldiers holding a stick with three knive attached to it. No military personnel were wounded in the attack. Gush Etzion, the area where the incident took place is a bloc of two dozen Israeli settlements and outposts near Bethlehem There is frequent friction at the nearby junction, which has been the site of numerous so-called lone wolf Palestinian attacks. Israel has occupied the West Bank since the 1967 Six-Day War. There are currently about 475,000 Jewish settlers in the West Bank living in communities considered illegal by most of the international community, alongside some 2.8 million Palestinians. (With agency inputs)

Palestinian killed by Israel army in attempted knife attack in West Bank

Minor blast that took place near the Israeli embassy in New Delhi., no injuries were reported. The blast was reported while the beating retreat ceremony was underway. Israel is treating this blast as a terror incident.

Israel is treating minor blast near its embassy in New Delhi as a terror incident

There are reports of a minor blast that took place near the Israeli embassy in New Delhi. No injury has been reported.

New Delhi: Minor blast near Israel embassy while beating ceremony was underway

A small blast near the Israeli embassy in New Delhi on Friday evening was caused by a "very low intensity improvised device",&nbsp;police&nbsp;said, adding there were no injuries.

Israel, according to Reuters, is treating this small blast as a terrorist incident.

The Israeli foreign ministry also assured all its diplomats and embassy staff were "safe and sound".

"An explosion occurred a short while ago, close to the Israeli Embassy in New Delhi. There are no casualties and no harm was done to the building. All Israeli diplomats and embassy staff are safe and sound," a foreign ministry release said.

"The event is being investigated by the Indian authorities who are in contact with Israeli officials," it said, adding that the foreign minister is frequently being updated on the situation and has directed to take all necessary precautions.

"We will report further developments as they occur," the release said.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has assured his Israeli counterpart of fullest protection for the diplomats and mission.

"The matter is under investigation. No effort will be spared to find the culprits," he said.

The low intensity explosion occurred while the Beating Retreat ceremony was underway at Rajpath&nbsp;just about 2 kilometres&nbsp;away.&nbsp;The district around the embassy was sealed off after the explosion and police and bomb disposal experts took over the scene.

A police statement described it as a "very low intensity improvised device" that blew out the windows on three nearby cars. "Initial impressions suggest a mischievous attempt to create a sensation," the statement added.

Delhi Police said that the explosion took place at a pavement,&nbsp;and caused damage to the windscreen of four to five cars.

Fire brigade, SWAT and forensic teams rushed to the spot soon after the incident that took place at around 5 pm.

"Multiple police teams have been rushed to the spot. It is yet to be ascertained the kind of material that exploded,"&nbsp;a senior police officer told IANS.

As per fire department information, they received the call at 5.11 pm. "The mirrors of two to three cars are broken. Three fire tenders were rushed to the spot," another official told PTI.

The embassy is on APJ Abdul Kalam Road.

An alert has been issued at all airports, important installations and government buildings in view of blast. Enhanced security measures have been put in place.

According to sources, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also been briefed by director, IB &nbsp;and CP, Delhi.

The Indian capital is also on a security alert because of farmers' protests against government agriculture reforms that deteriorated into serious unrest this week.

(with inputs from agencies)

A small blast near the Israeli embassy in New Delhi on Friday evening was caused by a "very low intensity improvised device", police said, adding there were no injuries.

A small blast near the Israeli embassy in New Delhi on Friday evening was caused by a "very low intensity improvised device", police said, adding there were no injuries. Israel, according to Reuters, is treating this small blast as a terrorist incident. The Israeli foreign ministry also assured all its diplomats and embassy staff were "safe and sound". "An explosion occurred a short while ago, close to the Israeli Embassy in New Delhi. There are no casualties and no harm was done to the building. All Israeli diplomats and embassy staff are safe and sound," a foreign ministry release said. "The event is being investigated by the Indian authorities who are in contact with Israeli officials," it said, adding that the foreign minister is frequently being updated on the situation and has directed to take all necessary precautions. "We will report further developments as they occur," the release said. Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has assured his Israeli counterpart of fullest protection for the diplomats and mission. "The matter is under investigation. No effort will be spared to find the culprits," he said. The low intensity explosion occurred while the Beating Retreat ceremony was underway at Rajpath just about 2 kilometres away. The district around the embassy was sealed off after the explosion and police and bomb disposal experts took over the scene. A police statement described it as a "very low intensity improvised device" that blew out the windows on three nearby cars. "Initial impressions suggest a mischievous attempt to create a sensation," the statement added. Delhi Police said that the explosion took place at a pavement, and caused damage to the windscreen of four to five cars. Fire brigade, SWAT and forensic teams rushed to the spot soon after the incident that took place at around 5 pm. "Multiple police teams have been rushed to the spot. It is yet to be ascertained the kind of material that exploded," a senior police officer told IANS. As per fire department information, they received the call at 5.11 pm. "The mirrors of two to three cars are broken. Three fire tenders were rushed to the spot," another official told PTI. The embassy is on APJ Abdul Kalam Road. An alert has been issued at all airports, important installations and government buildings in view of blast. Enhanced security measures have been put in place. According to sources, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also been briefed by director, IB and CP, Delhi. The Indian capital is also on a security alert because of farmers' protests against government agriculture reforms that deteriorated into serious unrest this week. (with inputs from agencies)

Explosion near Israel embassy in Delhi; Tel Aviv says treating it as 'terrorism'

Israel has announced that it has radiate plans against Iran to specifically counter Tehran's nuclear capability. He also warned the Biden administration against rejoining the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

WION Fineprint: Israel Army Chief ordered plans to attack Iran

Israel has been waging a "psychological war", a Iranian official Wednesday said after the Jewish state's army said new "offensive options" were being drawn up in case they were needed against the Islamic republic.

Mahmoud Vaezi, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's chief of staff, also vowed that his country was ready and willing to defend itself.

"We have no intention of going to war, but we are serious about defending the country," he said.

Israel, a close US ally, accuses Iran of seeking to build a nuclear bomb, a charge Tehran denies. The Jewish state also frequently targets Iran-backed militant groups in Lebanon, Syria and the Gaza Strip.

Israel's military chief General Aviv Kochavi said Tuesday he had ordered new plans be drawn up this year to counter Iran's nuclear capabilities, in case political leaders decided to target the country.

Iran's Vaezi shot back on Wednesday that "they are conducting a psychological war."&nbsp;

He also charged that Israel has "practically no plans, no capacity".

Iran's recent military manoeuvres, testing missiles and drones, Vaezi added, showed that "our armed forces are trained" to defend Iran.

Kochavi's remarks came nearly a week after the inauguration of US President Joe Biden, who has signalled he wants to return to dialogue with Iran.

His predecessor Donald Trump had unilaterally withdrawn Washington in 2018 from a nuclear deal Tehran had struck with major world powers.

Biden's team has argued Iran must first return to strict compliance with its nuclear commitments under the deal with Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States.

Tehran has demanded an "unconditional" lifting of punishing sanctions first, and called on Washington to stop seeking to "extract concessions".&nbsp;

Israel rejects the original nuclear deal, and Kochavi reiterated its view that "any agreement that resembles the 2015 agreement is a bad thing, both strategically and operationally".

(with inputs from AFP)

Israel has been waging a "psychological war", a Iranian official Wednesday said after the Jewish state's army said new "offensive options" were being drawn up in case they were needed against the Islamic republic.

Israel has been waging a "psychological war", a Iranian official Wednesday said after the Jewish state's army said new "offensive options" were being drawn up in case they were needed against the Islamic republic. Mahmoud Vaezi, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's chief of staff, also vowed that his country was ready and willing to defend itself. "We have no intention of going to war, but we are serious about defending the country," he said. Israel, a close US ally, accuses Iran of seeking to build a nuclear bomb, a charge Tehran denies. The Jewish state also frequently targets Iran-backed militant groups in Lebanon, Syria and the Gaza Strip. Israel's military chief General Aviv Kochavi said Tuesday he had ordered new plans be drawn up this year to counter Iran's nuclear capabilities, in case political leaders decided to target the country. Iran's Vaezi shot back on Wednesday that "they are conducting a psychological war." He also charged that Israel has "practically no plans, no capacity". Iran's recent military manoeuvres, testing missiles and drones, Vaezi added, showed that "our armed forces are trained" to defend Iran. Kochavi's remarks came nearly a week after the inauguration of US President Joe Biden, who has signalled he wants to return to dialogue with Iran. His predecessor Donald Trump had unilaterally withdrawn Washington in 2018 from a nuclear deal Tehran had struck with major world powers. Biden's team has argued Iran must first return to strict compliance with its nuclear commitments under the deal with Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States. Tehran has demanded an "unconditional" lifting of punishing sanctions first, and called on Washington to stop seeking to "extract concessions". Israel rejects the original nuclear deal, and Kochavi reiterated its view that "any agreement that resembles the 2015 agreement is a bad thing, both strategically and operationally". (with inputs from AFP)

Israel waging 'psychological war', Iran says

Israel's top general said on Tuesday (January 26) the military was refreshing its operational plans against Iran and any return, mulled by the new U.S. administration, to a 2015 nuclear accord with Tehran would be wrong.

Israel's top general says military refreshing operational plans against Iran

Holocaust Remembrance Day: A look at Israel's hidden memorial

Israel opened an embassy in the United Arab Emirates, its foreign ministry said Sunday, in a historic move four months after the Jewish state and the Gulf country normalised ties.

"Today the Israeli embassy in Abu Dhabi has officially been opened, with the arrival of the mission head Eitan Naeh," the ministry said in a statement.

"The Israeli embassy in the United Arab Emirates will advance relations between the countries on all levels."

The UAE had, earlier in the day, approved the establishment of the country's first embassy in Israel.

"The government approves the creation of the embassy of the United Arab Emirates to Tel Aviv, in the state of Israel," it announced on Twitter.

The UAE, along with Bahrain, signed a US-brokered deal&nbsp;in September to normalise relations with the Jewish state.

The agreements, known as the "Abraham Accords", shattered a longstanding Arab consensus that there should be no normalisation with Israel until it reaches a comprehensive peace deal with the Palestinians.

The Palestinians condemned the agreements as a "stab in the back".

Earlier this month, Sudan also signed the accords, becoming the third Arab country to do so and the fourth to normalise diplomatic relations with the Jewish state in as many months.

Morocco also normalised ties with Israel in December, in a diplomatic quid pro quo that saw Washington back Moroccan rule over the disputed Western Sahara region.

Until last year, only Egypt, in 1979, and Jordan, in 1994, had normalised ties with Israel.

(with inputs from AFP)

Israel opened an embassy in the United Arab Emirates, its foreign ministry said Sunday, in a historic move four months after the Jewish state and the Gulf country normalised ties.

Israel opened an embassy in the United Arab Emirates, its foreign ministry said Sunday, in a historic move four months after the Jewish state and the Gulf country normalised ties. "Today the Israeli embassy in Abu Dhabi has officially been opened, with the arrival of the mission head Eitan Naeh," the ministry said in a statement. "The Israeli embassy in the United Arab Emirates will advance relations between the countries on all levels." The UAE had, earlier in the day, approved the establishment of the country's first embassy in Israel. "The government approves the creation of the embassy of the United Arab Emirates to Tel Aviv, in the state of Israel," it announced on Twitter. The UAE, along with Bahrain, signed a US-brokered deal in September to normalise relations with the Jewish state. The agreements, known as the "Abraham Accords", shattered a longstanding Arab consensus that there should be no normalisation with Israel until it reaches a comprehensive peace deal with the Palestinians. The Palestinians condemned the agreements as a "stab in the back". Earlier this month, Sudan also signed the accords, becoming the third Arab country to do so and the fourth to normalise diplomatic relations with the Jewish state in as many months. Morocco also normalised ties with Israel in December, in a diplomatic quid pro quo that saw Washington back Moroccan rule over the disputed Western Sahara region. Until last year, only Egypt, in 1979, and Jordan, in 1994, had normalised ties with Israel. (with inputs from AFP)

Israel opens embassy in Abu Dhabi; UAE to return favour

Israel is banning passenger flights in and out of the country from Monday (January 25) evening in order to stop spread of new coronavirus variant. The ban will remain in effect for a week

"Other than rare exceptions, we are closing the sky hermetically to prevent the entry of the virus variants and also to ensure that we progress quickly with our vaccination campaign," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in public remarks at the start of a cabinet meeting.

The flight ban will come into effect from 2200 GMT on Monday and will go on until the end of January. The country's borders have already been largely closed to foreigners during the pandemic times, with only Israeli passport holders being allowed the entry.

On Sunday, Israel expanded its rapid vaccination drive to include late teens. The vaccines were initially limited to the elderly and other high-risk categories, but are now available to anyone over 40 or - with parental permission - those between 16 and 18.

The inclusion of late teens is meant "to enable their return (to school) and the orderly holding of exams," the Education Ministry spokeswoman said.

Israel awards a matriculation certificate to high school students in grades 10-12 who pass exams, administered by the Education Ministry, that play a major role in acceptance to universities. They can also affect placement in the military, where many Israelis do compulsory service after high school.

Israel has the world's fastest vaccine distribution rate. With regular imports of Pfizer Inc. vaccines, it has administered at least one dose to more than 25% of its 9 million population since Dec. 19, the Health Ministry says.

The country has been under a third national lockdown since Dec. 27, which it plans to lift at the end of January. Critics say the government has mishandled the crisis, lacking a clear long-term strategy and allowing politics to cloud its decisions.

Education Minister Yoav Galant, speaking on Ynet TV, said it was too early to know if schools would reopen next month.

(With Reuters inputs)

Israel is banning passenger flights in and out of the country from Monday (January 25) evening in order to stop spread of new coronavirus variant. The ban will remain in effect for a week "Other than rare exceptions, we are closing the sky hermetically to prevent the entry of the virus variants and also to ensure that we progress quickly with our vaccination campaign," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in public remarks at the start of a cabinet meeting.

Israel is banning passenger flights in and out of the country from Monday (January 25) evening in order to stop spread of new coronavirus variant. The ban will remain in effect for a week "Other than rare exceptions, we are closing the sky hermetically to prevent the entry of the virus variants and also to ensure that we progress quickly with our vaccination campaign," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in public remarks at the start of a cabinet meeting. The flight ban will come into effect from 2200 GMT on Monday and will go on until the end of January. The country's borders have already been largely closed to foreigners during the pandemic times, with only Israeli passport holders being allowed the entry. On Sunday, Israel expanded its rapid vaccination drive to include late teens. The vaccines were initially limited to the elderly and other high-risk categories, but are now available to anyone over 40 or - with parental permission - those between 16 and 18. The inclusion of late teens is meant "to enable their return (to school) and the orderly holding of exams," the Education Ministry spokeswoman said. Israel awards a matriculation certificate to high school students in grades 10-12 who pass exams, administered by the Education Ministry, that play a major role in acceptance to universities. They can also affect placement in the military, where many Israelis do compulsory service after high school. Israel has the world's fastest vaccine distribution rate. With regular imports of Pfizer Inc. vaccines, it has administered at least one dose to more than 25% of its 9 million population since Dec. 19, the Health Ministry says. The country has been under a third national lockdown since Dec. 27, which it plans to lift at the end of January. Critics say the government has mishandled the crisis, lacking a clear long-term strategy and allowing politics to cloud its decisions. Education Minister Yoav Galant, speaking on Ynet TV, said it was too early to know if schools would reopen next month. (With Reuters inputs)

Israel bans international flights to stop coronavirus spread

Iran may cooperate with the United States on oil and security in the Gulf, but not on Israel, the Iranian foreign minister said in remarks published on Saturday.

Ties between Tehran and Washington worsened under the administration of former President Donald Trump, who in 2018 withdrew from Iran`s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers and reimposed sanctions that have crippled its economy.

Iran called for action and “not just words” shortly after Joe Biden was sworn in as president on Wednesday. Biden has said Washington will rejoin the nuclear deal if Iran resumes strict compliance.

“In my personal opinion, we should define our relationship with the United States: To tell the U.S. that ‘we will not cooperate with you on the issue of Israel and we will disagree with you,`” Mohammad Javad Zarif said in an interview with the reformist Etmad newspaper.

Iran, he said, “will not allow you to interfere in its internal affairs, but we have no problem working with you on the question of oil. We have no problem with ensuring the security of the Persian Gulf, though we believe that foreign presence in the Persian Gulf causes insecurity and you should not be there.”

Iran may cooperate with the United States on oil and security in the Gulf, but not on Israel, the Iranian foreign minister said in remarks published on Saturday.

Iran may cooperate with the United States on oil and security in the Gulf, but not on Israel, the Iranian foreign minister said in remarks published on Saturday. Ties between Tehran and Washington worsened under the administration of former President Donald Trump, who in 2018 withdrew from Iran`s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers and reimposed sanctions that have crippled its economy. Iran called for action and “not just words” shortly after Joe Biden was sworn in as president on Wednesday. Biden has said Washington will rejoin the nuclear deal if Iran resumes strict compliance. “In my personal opinion, we should define our relationship with the United States: To tell the U.S. that ‘we will not cooperate with you on the issue of Israel and we will disagree with you,`” Mohammad Javad Zarif said in an interview with the reformist Etmad newspaper. Iran, he said, “will not allow you to interfere in its internal affairs, but we have no problem working with you on the question of oil. We have no problem with ensuring the security of the Persian Gulf, though we believe that foreign presence in the Persian Gulf causes insecurity and you should not be there.”

Iran's Zarif open to oil, Gulf security contacts with US, not on Israel

More than 12,400 people have tested positive for coronavirus in Israel after getting inoculated by the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine, including 69 people who had taken their second jab.

Israel: Over 12,000 people test positive for COVID-19 after receiving Pfizer vaccine

India hailed the peace deals between Israel and the Arab Nations. Speaking at the United Nation Council meeting, the Indian envoy to the UN TS Tirumurti said that these accords will lead to peace and stability in West Asia.

India praises Abraham accords at UNSC

About 13 people in Israel have experienced mild facial paralysis as a side effect after taking the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a>, the Health Ministry reported and estimates suggest that the real number could be higher.&nbsp;

Experts have raised questions whether the second dose is to be administered, but the Health Ministry is insisting that the second dose should be given.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-bans-travel-from-south-america-over-brazil-variant-fears-356929/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"For at least 28 hours I walked around with it (facial paralysis)," one person who faced the side-effect told Ynet.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-european-unions-pfizer-vaccine-deliveries-to-be-delayed-for-next-3-4-weeks-356982">Covid-19: European Union's Pfizer vaccine deliveries to be delayed 'for next 3-4 weeks'</a>

"I can't say it was completely gone afterwards, but other than that I had no other pains, except a minor pain where the injection was but there was nothing beyond that."

He said that he is unsure on taking the second dose, but added it is "rare" and he doesn't want people to avoid getting inoculated.

"It's important," he said.&nbsp;

Prof. Galia Rahav, director of the Infectious Diseases Unit at Sheba Medical Center said that he recently came across a person experiencing facial paralysis after being administered with the vaccine and so he decided to not give the person the second dose.&nbsp;

"It is true that it can be given according to the Health Ministry, but I did not feel comfortable with it," Rahav said.&nbsp;

Ynet reported that the health ministry has said that the second dose should definitely be given once the condition of paralysis heals.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

About 13 people in Israel have experienced mild facial paralysis as a side effect after taking the coronavirus vaccine, the Health Ministry reported and estimates suggest that the real number could be higher.

About 13 people in Israel have experienced mild facial paralysis as a side effect after taking the coronavirus vaccine, the Health Ministry reported and estimates suggest that the real number could be higher. Experts have raised questions whether the second dose is to be administered, but the Health Ministry is insisting that the second dose should be given. Watch | "For at least 28 hours I walked around with it (facial paralysis)," one person who faced the side-effect told Ynet. Also read | Covid-19: European Union's Pfizer vaccine deliveries to be delayed 'for next 3-4 weeks' "I can't say it was completely gone afterwards, but other than that I had no other pains, except a minor pain where the injection was but there was nothing beyond that." He said that he is unsure on taking the second dose, but added it is "rare" and he doesn't want people to avoid getting inoculated. "It's important," he said. Prof. Galia Rahav, director of the Infectious Diseases Unit at Sheba Medical Center said that he recently came across a person experiencing facial paralysis after being administered with the vaccine and so he decided to not give the person the second dose. "It is true that it can be given according to the Health Ministry, but I did not feel comfortable with it," Rahav said. Ynet reported that the health ministry has said that the second dose should definitely be given once the condition of paralysis heals.

13 in Israel experience facial paralysis after receiving Covid-19 vaccine: Report

In one of the deadliest attack in years, Israel strikes East-Syria, killing 57 people. Israel conducted 18 over-night air raids at multiple positions. Strike claims lives of 14 Syrian forces, 16 Iraqi fighters as well.

News Alert: Israel carries out deadliest airstrike in Syria, kills 57 people

Israel is now trying to win popular acceptance in the middle east after normalizing ties with United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco. The nation is now using social media to further cement ties with the Arab world.

A social media blitzkrieg from Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the construction of 800 Jewish houses in the West Bank. The project has been given a go-ahead during the final days of Donald Trump administration.

In Donald Trump's final days of presidency, Netanyahu orders more settler homes built | West Bank

Netanyahu orders construction of 800 more settlements in disputed West Bank

The Palestinian Authority has accused Israel of shirking a duty to ensure vaccines are available in occupied territory.

It also said on Sunday it expects to receive its first COVID-19 vaccine doses in March under a deal with drugmaker AstraZeneca.

While Israel has already become the world leader in vaccinations per capita, Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip have yet to secure their first supplies.

Yasser Bozyeh, the Palestinian general director of public health, told Reuters that in addition to reaching an agreement in principle with AstraZeneca, the Palestinians had also sought supplies from Moderna, Johnson &amp; Johnson and Russia, which has developed the Sputnik V vaccine.

Supplies would also come through a World Health Organisation vaccine programme for poor and middle income countries.

To this end, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry said in a statement Israel had been "ignoring its duties as an occupation power and committing racial discrimination against the Palestinian people, depriving them of their right to healthcare."

"The search by the Palestinian leadership to secure the vaccines from various sources doesn`t exempt Israel from its responsibilities towards the Palestinian people in providing the vaccines," it said.

Under interim peace accords with Israel, the Palestinian Authority exercises limited self-rule in the West Bank. Hamas Islamists run the Gaza Strip.

Israel's vaccination programme covers the country's Arab citizens and Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem.

On the West Bank, it has given vaccines to Israeli settlers, but not to Palestinian residents, who receive health services from the Palestinian Authority.

Human rights groups including Amnesty International say Israel has a legal obligation to provide vaccines for Palestinians under occupation. Israeli officials, however, say they could share vaccines with the Palestinians once Israel`s own needs are met.

A WHO official said on Sunday the organisation had held "informal discussions" with Israel over allocating some supplies to the Palestinians to inoculate health workers. The official, Gerald Rockenschaub, head of the WHO office in the Palestinian territories, said Israel indicated it would explore the option.

(with inputs)

The Palestinian Authority has accused Israel of shirking a duty to ensure vaccines are available in occupied territory. It also said on Sunday it expects to receive its first COVID-19 vaccine doses in March under a deal with drugmaker AstraZeneca.

The Palestinian Authority has accused Israel of shirking a duty to ensure vaccines are available in occupied territory. It also said on Sunday it expects to receive its first COVID-19 vaccine doses in March under a deal with drugmaker AstraZeneca. While Israel has already become the world leader in vaccinations per capita, Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip have yet to secure their first supplies. Yasser Bozyeh, the Palestinian general director of public health, told Reuters that in addition to reaching an agreement in principle with AstraZeneca, the Palestinians had also sought supplies from Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and Russia, which has developed the Sputnik V vaccine. Supplies would also come through a World Health Organisation vaccine programme for poor and middle income countries. To this end, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry said in a statement Israel had been "ignoring its duties as an occupation power and committing racial discrimination against the Palestinian people, depriving them of their right to healthcare." "The search by the Palestinian leadership to secure the vaccines from various sources doesn`t exempt Israel from its responsibilities towards the Palestinian people in providing the vaccines," it said. Under interim peace accords with Israel, the Palestinian Authority exercises limited self-rule in the West Bank. Hamas Islamists run the Gaza Strip. Israel's vaccination programme covers the country's Arab citizens and Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem. On the West Bank, it has given vaccines to Israeli settlers, but not to Palestinian residents, who receive health services from the Palestinian Authority. Human rights groups including Amnesty International say Israel has a legal obligation to provide vaccines for Palestinians under occupation. Israeli officials, however, say they could share vaccines with the Palestinians once Israel`s own needs are met. A WHO official said on Sunday the organisation had held "informal discussions" with Israel over allocating some supplies to the Palestinians to inoculate health workers. The official, Gerald Rockenschaub, head of the WHO office in the Palestinian territories, said Israel indicated it would explore the option. (with inputs)

Palestinians accuse Israel of shirking duty to supply vaccines to occupied territory

The world's fastest per capita vaccination programme in Israel&nbsp;moved on to administering booster shots on Sunday.&nbsp;

Israel intends to inoculate its most vulnerable citizens by February, after which it plans to open up the economy. Israel has been administering Pfizer coronavirus shots on citizens aged above 60 since December 19. Now, these people are set to receive their final follow-up doses.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-administers-115-vaccination-doses-per-100-people-354218/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It changes everything,"Guy Choshen, a director of the coronavirus ward at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv, who got his second injection told Reuters. "I'm really happy that I'm over that (and) looking forward for all this epidemic to be finished", Choshen added. 
 
According to the country's health ministry, over 19.5 per cent of the Israeli population have received vaccinations. This includes over 72 per cent of Israelis aged over 60.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/2-million-planned-to-be-vaccinated-in-israel-by-end-of-january-354217" hreflang="en">2 million planned to be vaccinated in Israel by end of January</a> 
 
Even now, the elderly who haven't received their first shots will be prioritised. But otherwise, vaccines are now being reserved for booster shots.

Israel has the world's fastest vaccination rate, as per data from the Our World in Data website, run by research organisation Oxford Martin School.

Trailing close is the United Arab Emirates, which has inoculated 10 per cent of its population. Bahrain and the United States follow suit with 5 per cent and 2 per cent respectively.

Earlier, Prime Minister Netanyahu had claimed that the country intends to vaccinate a quarter of its population within a month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/how-israel-became-a-world-leader-in-vaccinating-against-covid-19-353951" hreflang="en">How Israel became a world leader in vaccinating against COVID-19</a>

"I spoke over the weekend with the heads of the companies that are providing us with the vaccines and I told them that our goal by next weekend is to reach 150,000 vaccines a day," Netanyahu claimed in a video.

"This means that within 30 days of reaching this pace we will have administered 4.5 million vaccinations," he added. "Since everyone needs two injections, after one month we will have vaccinated 2.25 million Israeli citizens”, Netanyahu added.

On December 19, Netanyahu became the first Israeli to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Starting Monday, the government began its nationwide inoculation programme.

The world's fastest per capita vaccination programme in Israel moved on to administering booster shots on Sunday. Israel intends to inoculate its most vulnerable citizens by February, after which it plans to open up the economy.

The world's fastest per capita vaccination programme in Israel moved on to administering booster shots on Sunday. Israel intends to inoculate its most vulnerable citizens by February, after which it plans to open up the economy. Israel has been administering Pfizer coronavirus shots on citizens aged above 60 since December 19. Now, these people are set to receive their final follow-up doses. "It changes everything,"Guy Choshen, a director of the coronavirus ward at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv, who got his second injection told Reuters. "I'm really happy that I'm over that (and) looking forward for all this epidemic to be finished", Choshen added. According to the country's health ministry, over 19.5 per cent of the Israeli population have received vaccinations. This includes over 72 per cent of Israelis aged over 60. Also read: 2 million planned to be vaccinated in Israel by end of January Even now, the elderly who haven't received their first shots will be prioritised. But otherwise, vaccines are now being reserved for booster shots. Israel has the world's fastest vaccination rate, as per data from the Our World in Data website, run by research organisation Oxford Martin School. Trailing close is the United Arab Emirates, which has inoculated 10 per cent of its population. Bahrain and the United States follow suit with 5 per cent and 2 per cent respectively. Earlier, Prime Minister Netanyahu had claimed that the country intends to vaccinate a quarter of its population within a month. Also read: How Israel became a world leader in vaccinating against COVID-19 "I spoke over the weekend with the heads of the companies that are providing us with the vaccines and I told them that our goal by next weekend is to reach 150,000 vaccines a day," Netanyahu claimed in a video. "This means that within 30 days of reaching this pace we will have administered 4.5 million vaccinations," he added. "Since everyone needs two injections, after one month we will have vaccinated 2.25 million Israeli citizens”, Netanyahu added. On December 19, Netanyahu became the first Israeli to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Starting Monday, the government began its nationwide inoculation programme.

As part of world's fastest vaccination programme, Israel begins rolling out coronavirus booster shots

Amnesty International on Wednesday called on Israel to provide coronavirus vaccine doses to Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza. He said the Jewish state was obligated to do so under international law.

The Palestinian Authority (PA) in the West Bank, which is home to some 2.8 million Palestinians, has not publically asked for Israeli assistance in vaccine procurement.&nbsp;

Hamas Islamists, who control the Gaza strip, where about two million Palestinians live, are highly unlikely to publicly coordinate with Israel in any vaccination effort.&nbsp;

But UK-based rights group Amnesty said Israel needed to "stop ignoring its international obligations as an occupying power and immediately act to ensure that Covid-19 vaccines are equally and fairly provided to Palestinians living under its occupation in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip."&nbsp;

The PA has said Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza would be vaccinated through the United Nations-backed COVAX programme.

The Palestinian health ministry said Monday that it expected to receive its first vaccine doses next month through COVAX.

Israel began innoculating its citizens, including Israeli settlers in the West Bank, on December 19, starting with medical workers and the over 60s, and has so far injected more than a million people.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday he hoped that within a month 2.25 million Israelis -- a quarter of the population of nine million -- would have received the two shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech jab needed for optimum effect.

As of Tuesday, Israel's health ministry had confirmed 451,000 cases of the virus since the outbreak of the pandemic, with over 3,400 deaths.

The Palestinian health ministry has confirmed more than 100,000 cases in the West Bank, including 1,100 deaths.&nbsp;

Israel has since withdrawn from Gaza but maintains a tight blockade on the strip, which it says is necessary to contain Hamas, an Islamist group that has fought three wars with the Jewish state since 2008.

Amnesty International on Wednesday called on Israel to provide coronavirus vaccine doses to Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza. He said the Jewish state was obligated to do so under international law.

Amnesty International on Wednesday called on Israel to provide coronavirus vaccine doses to Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza. He said the Jewish state was obligated to do so under international law. The Palestinian Authority (PA) in the West Bank, which is home to some 2.8 million Palestinians, has not publically asked for Israeli assistance in vaccine procurement. Hamas Islamists, who control the Gaza strip, where about two million Palestinians live, are highly unlikely to publicly coordinate with Israel in any vaccination effort. But UK-based rights group Amnesty said Israel needed to "stop ignoring its international obligations as an occupying power and immediately act to ensure that Covid-19 vaccines are equally and fairly provided to Palestinians living under its occupation in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip." The PA has said Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza would be vaccinated through the United Nations-backed COVAX programme. The Palestinian health ministry said Monday that it expected to receive its first vaccine doses next month through COVAX. Israel began innoculating its citizens, including Israeli settlers in the West Bank, on December 19, starting with medical workers and the over 60s, and has so far injected more than a million people. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday he hoped that within a month 2.25 million Israelis -- a quarter of the population of nine million -- would have received the two shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech jab needed for optimum effect. As of Tuesday, Israel's health ministry had confirmed 451,000 cases of the virus since the outbreak of the pandemic, with over 3,400 deaths. The Palestinian health ministry has confirmed more than 100,000 cases in the West Bank, including 1,100 deaths. Israel has since withdrawn from Gaza but maintains a tight blockade on the strip, which it says is necessary to contain Hamas, an Islamist group that has fought three wars with the Jewish state since 2008.

Amnesty calls on Israel to give Palestinians Covid vaccine

The densely populated Gaza Strip has long lacked official drinking water. But, a new project has now helped mitigate this shortfall with the solar power process.

Israel firm helps Gaza strip residents amidst worsening water crisis

Israel leads the vaccine race; administers 11.5 vaccination doses per 100 people. Over 10% of the country's population has been vaccinated so far. By the end of this month, the high-risk population will receive the second dose of the vaccine.

Israel administers 11.5 vaccination doses per 100 people

5 countries normalised ties with Israel this year. Will Pakistan be next? A statement from Prime Minister Imran Khan triggered intense speculation. Now, religious leaders have supported the idea. WION's Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Will Pakistan normalise ties with Israel?

If Pakistan formalises ties with Israel, Islamabad stands to lose allies and FATF votes. Imran Khan will also lose support at home. Will Pakistan still go ahead with it? WION's Palki Sharma has the details

Gravitas: Is it wise for Pakistan to formalise ties with Israel?

Pakistan is a part of a club of 28 countries that do not recognise Israel. But that hasn't stopped the engagement between the two sides. WION's Palki Sharma brings you the story of the complicated relationship between Israel and Pakistan.

Gravitas | Pakistan-Israel Ties: A complicated relationship

Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi left Blue and White party on Wednesday. This is the latest high profile&nbsp;defection from the bloc led by Defence Minister Benny Gantz. The party ran neck-to-neck with Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu's right wing Likud party during three inconclusive elections held between April 2019 and March 2020. The party however has seen dissent ever since Benny Gantz agreed to form coalition government with Netanyahu earlier this year.

Ashkenazi, like Gantz a former army chief, had been Gantz's top ally in the coalition that collapsed last week after failing to pass a budget, amid bitter acrimony between Blue and White and Likud.&nbsp;

New elections have been set for March 23, Israel's fourth vote in just under two years.&nbsp;

Despite Blue and White's cratering poll numbers, Gantz announced Tuesday that he intended to lead the party in the upcoming vote, vowing to be player in the anti-Netanyahu bloc.&nbsp; 
On Wednesday, Ashkenazi tweeted that he did "not intend to contest in the next election with Blue and White."

"I will take a break to consider the path ahead," he said.&nbsp;

Gantz said in a statement that he respected Ashkenazi's decision to leave the party and expressed his "heartfelt gratitude for these past two years of partnership for the good of our country."

A Blue and White spokesperson told AFP that Gantz had not asked Ashkenazi to resign from the foreign ministry.

That marks a departure compared to Gantz's response to the defection of outgoing justice minister Avi Nissenkorn.&nbsp;

Nissenkorn bolted from Blue and White to join a new centrist party formed by veteran Tel Aviv mayor Ron Huldai, called The Israelis.&nbsp;

Gantz asked Nissenkorn to resign from the justice ministry on Tuesday on grounds that Nissenkorn had "chosen his new political home." 
Recent polls indicate Blue and White will win just handful of seats in the March vote.

(With AFP inputs)

Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi left Blue and White party on Wednesday. This is the latest high profile defection from the bloc led by Defence Minister Benny Gantz.

Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi left Blue and White party on Wednesday. This is the latest high profile defection from the bloc led by Defence Minister Benny Gantz. The party ran neck-to-neck with Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu's right wing Likud party during three inconclusive elections held between April 2019 and March 2020. The party however has seen dissent ever since Benny Gantz agreed to form coalition government with Netanyahu earlier this year. Ashkenazi, like Gantz a former army chief, had been Gantz's top ally in the coalition that collapsed last week after failing to pass a budget, amid bitter acrimony between Blue and White and Likud. New elections have been set for March 23, Israel's fourth vote in just under two years. Despite Blue and White's cratering poll numbers, Gantz announced Tuesday that he intended to lead the party in the upcoming vote, vowing to be player in the anti-Netanyahu bloc. On Wednesday, Ashkenazi tweeted that he did "not intend to contest in the next election with Blue and White." "I will take a break to consider the path ahead," he said. Gantz said in a statement that he respected Ashkenazi's decision to leave the party and expressed his "heartfelt gratitude for these past two years of partnership for the good of our country." A Blue and White spokesperson told AFP that Gantz had not asked Ashkenazi to resign from the foreign ministry. That marks a departure compared to Gantz's response to the defection of outgoing justice minister Avi Nissenkorn. Nissenkorn bolted from Blue and White to join a new centrist party formed by veteran Tel Aviv mayor Ron Huldai, called The Israelis. Gantz asked Nissenkorn to resign from the justice ministry on Tuesday on grounds that Nissenkorn had "chosen his new political home." Recent polls indicate Blue and White will win just handful of seats in the March vote. (With AFP inputs)

Israel Foreign Minister Ashkenazi quits Gantz's Blue and White Party

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday said that the country intends to vaccinate a quarter of its population against COVID-19 within a month. Netanyahu claimed that with mass inoculation, he hopes the country could return to normalcy.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-receives-covid-19-vaccine-jab-351132/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I spoke over the weekend with the heads of the companies that are providing us with the vaccines and I told them that our goal by next weekend is to reach 150,000 vaccines a day," Netanyahu claimed in a video.

"This means that within 30 days of reaching this pace we will have administered 4.5 million vaccinations," he added. "Since everyone needs two injections, after one month we will have vaccinated 2.25 million Israeli citizens”, Netanyahu added.

On December 19, Netanyahu became the first Israeli to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Starting Monday, the government began its nationwide inoculation programme.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/israel-targets-hamas-sites-after-gaza-militants-fire-rockets-352466" hreflang="en">Israel targets Hamas sites after Gaza militants fire rockets</a>

By Friday, over 210,000 people had received the first dose of the vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech.

Netanyahu hopes that the vaccines will help Israel return to normal, and to “emerge from the coronavirus”, paving way for the reopening of its economy. Israel will be able to “do things that no country can do”, he added.

Starting today, Israel is entering a two-week long lockdown, the country’s third lockdown since the beginning of the pandemic. A rise in the number of cases recently has caused authorities to impose a lockdown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/israeli-election-take-four-conservatives-vs-conservatives-352064" hreflang="en">Israeli election, take four: conservatives vs. conservatives</a>

During the lockdown, nobody in Israel can travel beyond a kilometre from their homes, and all business are expected to stay shut except for deliveries.

But those seeking medical treatment will be allowed to go. Even a few schools will remain open.&nbsp; As of now, the country of nine million has 398,015 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday said that the country intends to vaccinate a quarter of its population against COVID-19 within a month. Netanyahu claimed that with mass inoculation, he hopes the country could return to normalcy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday said that the country intends to vaccinate a quarter of its population against COVID-19 within a month. Netanyahu claimed that with mass inoculation, he hopes the country could return to normalcy. "I spoke over the weekend with the heads of the companies that are providing us with the vaccines and I told them that our goal by next weekend is to reach 150,000 vaccines a day," Netanyahu claimed in a video. "This means that within 30 days of reaching this pace we will have administered 4.5 million vaccinations," he added. "Since everyone needs two injections, after one month we will have vaccinated 2.25 million Israeli citizens”, Netanyahu added. On December 19, Netanyahu became the first Israeli to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Starting Monday, the government began its nationwide inoculation programme. Also read: Israel targets Hamas sites after Gaza militants fire rockets By Friday, over 210,000 people had received the first dose of the vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech. Netanyahu hopes that the vaccines will help Israel return to normal, and to “emerge from the coronavirus”, paving way for the reopening of its economy. Israel will be able to “do things that no country can do”, he added. Starting today, Israel is entering a two-week long lockdown, the country’s third lockdown since the beginning of the pandemic. A rise in the number of cases recently has caused authorities to impose a lockdown. Also read: Israeli election, take four: conservatives vs. conservatives During the lockdown, nobody in Israel can travel beyond a kilometre from their homes, and all business are expected to stay shut except for deliveries. But those seeking medical treatment will be allowed to go. Even a few schools will remain open. As of now, the country of nine million has 398,015 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Israel to inoculate quarter of its population against coronavirus in a month, says Netanyahu

israel

Israel, News on Israel, stories on Israel, articles on Israel, Israel stories at Wion, Israel news, Israel latest news