National Insurance Institute says rate of poor Israelis fell 0.6% to 21%; estimates quality of life rose by 2.4%, whereas without state payouts it would have dropped by 10%

Serious cases remain well below 100 as largest number of people receive first and third shots in over a month; more than 1,000 people test positive for fifth day in a row

TV report says Health Ministry director may not endorse panel’s recommendation to offer additional booster shots if further data suggests hospitalizations lower from new variant

Health minister says lockdowns and travel restrictions cannot be a long-term solution: 'We can't endlessly live in a bunker'

Europe experiencing 60% of all COVID cases worldwide, though studies suggest Omicron may produce less severe symptoms than Delta

On his way out, De Blasio says no repeat of last year's 'devastating' closure of schools and businesses, even as Omicron variant more than triples infections in 1 week

British officials reportedly drawing up plans for 'circuit breaker' after Christmas; Dutch government expected to announce 'strict' shutdown; Paris cancels New Year's fireworks

Groups classified as ‘Jewish tourism’ allowed to circumvent ban on foreign entry, but will still be required to undergo three-day quarantine upon arrival

Nachman Shai defends government decision made to stop COVID spread, saying Israeli public's health is top priority, but recognizes its cost

In letter to Jewish Federations of North America, PM recognizes pain caused by decision to shutter borders to foreigners, but says his primary responsibility is citizens' health