Israel: Over 4,000 new virus cases amid total lockdown

JERUSALEM

Israeli health authorities on Thursday reported 4,117 new coronavirus infections amid the total lockdown.

Israel’s overall pandemic case count now stands at 282,872, including 1,824 deaths and 219,998 recoveries, according to Health Ministry data.

At least 847 patients remain in critical condition, the statement said.

Amid an exponential rise in infections, Israel returned to imposing a total lockdown which will remain in force until Oct. 14.

Last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the lockdown will be lifted slowly and in a gradual process that could even continue for an entire year.

* Writing by Mahmoud Barakat