PM reportedly dead set on ordering closure, given concerns of rising infection rates and the emergence of more virulent coronavirus strains

Shoshi Gomel was replaced by PM's personal physician, Tzvi Berkovitz, even though she had filled the syringe; she says it 'took pressure off' and 'maybe Netanyahu trusted him more'

Ministers meet on more infectious COVID-19 mutation found in Britain, mull barring all overseas flights; PM says no indication vaccine would not work against new strain

David Bitan's family says he's in serious but stable condition and is communicating with those around him

'One small injection for a man, one giant leap for the health of us all,' PM says after getting the Pfizer shot; adds if public cooperates, Israel could be first to end pandemic

Report says health organizations received a very limited amount of shots for the week; virus czar says country won't see effects of inoculation program for at least 2 months

Health minister says first round of vaccinations for high-risk people could be done in two weeks, with drive to then be opened to general population if there are enough doses

As disinformation proliferates about safety of inoculation, Edelstein says vaccine has been 'tested in every possible way,' urges public to trust experts

Rate of positive COVID-19 tests leaps to 3.5% and active cases near 20,000, as deputy health minister says 'no avoiding' reimposed closures

Health Ministry sources quoted saying shutdown of commercial activity will be longer than planned since many schools will remain open