Bank of Israel says economic damage of latest closure actually expected to be somewhat less than previous ones, due to more lax restrictions and schools staying partly open

Day before Israel enters its third national lockdown, Health Ministry says over 74,000 people got their first shots on Thursday

Palestinians celebrate holiday in the traditional birthplace of Jesus with marching bands and other events, but there, and around the world, streets are empty and moods are sombre

PM asserts that lockdown, combined with vaccination campaign, can make Israel the 1st country to overcome coronavirus crisis

Gov't scraps plan to cap studies for grades 1-4, 11-12, which was reportedly meant to encourage ‘a sense of lockdown' in population; 40 suspected cases of virus mutation said found

Health minister says vaccines to be made available to all age groups in 1-2 weeks, says appointments for elderly and at-risk groups will be moved up

Officials said to fear recent spike in Haredi infections is result of variant; Health Ministry said to recommend 25-day shut down of all non-essential public life, starting Sunday

Cabinet to meet Wednesday afternoon to make decision, with leaders reportedly at odds over timing for reimposing sweeping restrictions

Cabinet set to meet Wednesday to make decision with leaders reported to be at odds over timing of reimposition of sweeping restrictions

While lack of visitors has been devastating for trade, it has also created a rare chance for solemn worship, says holy city's parish priest