This archive report was first published on 17 July 2020.
Israel's Resurgent Virus Crisis Rattles Netanyahu ¶
Israel's resurgent virus crisis has dented Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's support, with a recent poll showing 61% of voters are displeased with his handling of the crisis.
On Friday, the government announced new restrictions, including closing stores, markets, and public spaces on weekends, and limiting restaurants to takeaway services during the week.
Netanyahu's office said the premier wanted to avoid another general lockdown, which would likely infuriate a public battered by the pandemic.
However, the new measures have sparked widespread criticism, with opposition lawmakers accusing Netanyahu of making a 'politically motivated' decision to suppress further protests.
Protests against economic hardship have spread across the country, with some 10,000 people demonstrating in Tel Aviv on Saturday.
Netanyahu has taken responsibility for the hasty re-opening of Israel's economy between late April and June, which is widely seen as triggering the resurgence in cases.
As the crisis deepens, calls have mounted for the government to name a coronavirus response coordinator, with Netanyahu's bitter rival, ex-defence minister Naftali Bennett, emerging as a popular choice.
According to a Channel 13 poll, 45% of the public think Bennett should be named Israel's anti-coronavirus chief, while 26% said he should not.
Published on July 17, 2020.
