Israel’s highest court ruling to block travel borders leaves the country vulnerable to new coronavirus changes entering Israeli borders, a senior health official said Thursday.
The Supreme Court of Justice on Wednesday ruled that the captain of 3,000 daily travelers allowed into the country is illegitimate, drawing criticism from the government and a health official, who said the decision could lead to another COVID-19 wave.
Director of the Ministry of Health Prof. Hezi Levi told a news release he “respects” the High Court ruling, but said there were certain risks with the decision. “We believe this decision is a threat to new changes coming into the country. We will do our best to investigate [the ruling] and take action to reduce the infection. “
The professor said one of the reasons Israel decided to put in an entry cap was due to the lack of Israeli control, with 60% of returning passengers going against the self-isolation order.
“There are new changes all over the world, and it worries us. There are countries in the world that have banned the public [from leaving and entering] for fear of new changes.
However, he said he was optimistic about the current virus movements in the country, saying he does not think the fourth lockout will happen.
“At the moment I don’t see the need to talk about locking quarters. If we continue to behave properly – reduce the level of infection and get the vaccine – I really hope and believe we don’t reach the fourth point of closure. “
The professor said the country is on track for the fourth phase of the lockout exit plan, which is set to begin next week. “[The fourth stage] is currently being agreed by the government and will lift more restrictions on social gatherings, such as sporting and cultural events.