Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the coronavirus cabinet Sunday that any major lifting of restrictions can only happen when at least five million people have been vaccinated in Israel.
The government last week began talks on allowing the “Green Pass” sketch, which is supposed to see culture and commerce businesses reopen, to former Israelis. surrounded by the two vaccine perspectives.
However, Ministers continued to be at the forefront of speed loggers to further reduce locking barriers at the afternoon meeting. Blue and White party Defense Minister Benny Gantz is pushing for the first stage of implementation this week, accusing Netanyahu of delaying the relaxation of restrictions to spread them closer to elections 23 March.
Netanyahu began the meeting by saying that the decision on reopening should be made without political interests. “You see what happened the last time we listened to those who called for a quick opening, there doesn’t have to be political consideration,” he said.
“We need to reach five million vaccines [before reopening]. “
Gantz responded that he would not take any further delay in reopening and dismissed Netanyahu’s claims that calling for a quick lockout is life-threatening. “I will not forgive you for saying that I am endangering people’s lives just because I did not agree with you … I have fought for the citizens of Israel all my life.”
Encouraged Netanyahu to respond that he would not host “irrelevant” comments and doubled down his previous statements.
“We are seeing the beginning of a recession of diseases and that is a good sign. However, we must be careful and gradually open up the economy. We must not push for a swift and reckless reopening, which would jeopardize the lives of many Israelis… We need an accountable plan. “
Prof. Nachman Ash, chief executive of the “Green Pass”, at the beginning of the meeting proposed implementing legislation that would make those working in high-risk areas vulnerable to the virus, teachers and medical staff including getting the vaccine.
As explained by the Ministry of Health, the first phase of reopening is set for Feb. 23 and will see levels 5-6 and 11-12 return to schools and street shops resume operations.
This phase also includes the reopening of malls, shopping centers, gyms, cultural and sports centers – including limited live performances – museums, galleries, libraries and hotels without restaurants .
The final phase, which is to begin on Mar. 9, grades 7-10 return to schools in all low-to-medium-sized urban areas. Small cafes and restaurants will open to the public, including those who are not vaccinated.
Restaurants (pre-booked), hotels with dining areas, event halls, attractions and conferences are only available to those with a green passport.