Israel was set Sunday to begin its third coronavirus lockdown, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voiced optimism that a "world record" vaccination drive will restore a degree of normality within weeks. From 5:00pm (1500 GMT) on Sunday, most people will be forced to stay within 1,000 metres of their home. A key difference in Israel's third lockdown compared to previous versions relates to schools, with more students able to attend classes. Israel's vaccination targets are of "such a magnitude (they amount to) a world record" pace, the prime minister said. Political analysts have said that Netanyahu is hoping a rapid vaccination drive will put Israel's pandemic-wracked economy on a path to recovery before election day.

Source: Mint December 27, 2020 11:21 UTC