Israel Reinstates Restrictions on Gatherings as COVID Cases Continue to Rise
As the coronavirus delta variant continues to spread across Israel, more restrictions on gatherings are restored
Israel has reinstated restrictions on gathering due to the rise in COVID cases in Israel.
Beginning Thursday, the Green Pass – which shows that the bearer has been vaccinated, has recovered from COVID or presents a valid negative PCR test – is required in both open and enclosed spaces where there are more than 100 people. A Green Pass is not required for children under 12 years of age.
A Green Pass will be required at sports and cultural events, hotels and tourist attractions, gyms, restaurants, coffee shops, dining rooms, conferences and houses of worship.
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Until August 8, a PCR test, valid for 72 hours, can be performed at no charge to enter these venues. However, after that date only a rapid test, valid for 24 hours, will be accepted, and these tests will require payment.
In a statement to the media, Health Ministry Director General Nachman Ash said: “The coronavirus cabinet approved the Green Pass with the goal of stopping the rise in infections, and we hope that with the cooperation of the public, we will achieve that goal.”
Yet in a recording played Wednesday on Channel 12 News, Ash is heard saying the Green Pass is not expected to make “a dramatic change.”
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Last week the Green Pass went into effect at events and clubs.
There were 2,260 coronavirus cases on Tuesday, topping 2,000 for the second straight day. The number of Covid patients in serious condition stands at 153; of them 35 are in critical condition and 26 on ventilators.