Issuing Israel’s COVID-19 vaccine certificate, known as the “Green Pass”, senior health officials warned Thursday that picking up the certificate could lead to severe punishment and even jail time.
“Today we met with senior police officers to discuss unique enforcement and punishment, both for those who build the Green Pass and for those who use it. [the forged document], “Ministry of Health Director General Professor Hezi Levy said.
Health Minister Yuli Edelstein also heeded Levy’s warning.
“Whoever thinks that this is a child ‘s play and who will certify himself despite not being vaccinated will be caught and imprisoned,” he said.
Levy also said that people who have contracted coronavirus will also be eligible for the vaccine. He said the ministry has not yet decided whether to give a dose or two to COVID recovery.
Edelstein introduced the benefits given to Green Pass keepers starting Sunday.
Edelstein also said that “there will soon be workplaces where people who work face-to-face with customers on a regular basis need to be vaccinated or tested every 48 hours”. He then went on to spread false news about the vaccines.
“Vaccines are a very important national mission. Unfortunately, there are people who lack a moral compass and who attack the inoculation campaign and spread false news,” Edelstein said.
“They make up stories to cast doubt and prevent people, Israeli citizens, from getting the vaccine.”
However, Edelstein maintained that Israel will not force its citizens to be vaccinated and will not impose personal sanctions on those who choose not to do so.
Edelstein urged Israelis who received both vaccine doses to continue wearing a face mask in public.
“We will open events that will be attended by hundreds of people. We want to see event halls, synagogues and other events where everyone has a mask,” the minister said. “There is no other way to protect our health. Anyone who wants a professional explanation will be able to get them from doctors.”