COVID-19 cases remain high as more than 1,100 patients hospitalized in serious condition

While the Israeli government weighs an extension to the national lockdown expiring next week, a spat between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Benny Gantz has put the cabinet’s meeting Tuesday in question.

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Gantz’s office released a statement saying, “If we do not increase enforcement efforts -- there will be no government meeting.”

The former military chief referenced the bill that passed Monday on first reading in parliament that would significantly increase fines for violations of coronavirus rules.

However, due to ultra-Orthodox parties’ reluctance to back the legislation, reports emerged that Netanyahu was willing to compromise on the measure. Read more at i24