Israel bans flights amid virus surge
Israel is also experiencing violent clashes over virus restrictions as well as relative success in administering coronavirus vaccines.
Israel has stopped flights into the country following a surge in coronavirus cases. The flight ban also comes amid violent clashes over virus restrictions in the country.
As of Monday, all passenger flights are prohibited from entering Israel. The only flights allowed in are flights for cargo, medical evacuation and putting out fires. Flying out of Israel is only allowed for medical treatment, the funeral of a close relative or a necessary judicial proceeding, according to a press release from the prime minister's office. The government may also allow exceptions based on humanitarian concerns and need.
Israel has struggled to contain COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic. Anti-government protests, opposition to anti-virus measures in religious Jewish communities and the economic situation have all complicated the government’s efforts to enforce health measures.
The current surge began in December, and Israel is now registering several thousand cases a day, according to Worldometer.
