PM says he accepts criticism over wife taking kids on vacation days after he recommended against traveling, but defends Gilat as 'most kindhearted person I know'

Premier's wife said to have refused requests to cancel trip; some of PM's coalition partners reportedly unhappy at the optics as tourist industry hit again by restrictions

After facing criticism, premier says he no longer recommends avoiding international travel due to details learned in past few days about Omicron strain

As new restrictions take effect, all Israelis returning to country are now required to immediately enter quarantine until confirmed virus-free by twin PCR tests

Starting Monday, America will limit travel from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi; Fauci says more info on variant still needed

Germany, Italy, and Britain have already restricted most travel from South Africa and neighboring nations, as EU calls on entire bloc to follow suit

Nachman Ash doesn't specify which countries might be put on the no-fly 'red' list, but media reports say Austria being scrutinized, and several others are also under consideration

Amid global COVID decline, government takes Turkey, Bulgaria and Brazil off banned list; ministers argue over requirement to scan QR codes in new Green Passes

Jerusalem has reportedly requested that other countries not consider its citizens to be vaccinated if they don't get 3rd dose 6 months after receiving 2nd

Incoming tourists from select countries must be fully vaccinated with a recent negative COVID test; must also undergo antibody testing upon arrival in order to skip quarantine