Netanyahu warns British mutation could be ‘coronavirus 2.0’

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defends the decision to ban foreigners from Israel and force Israelis who return from other countries to self-isolate in state-run hotels.

“We have a new epidemic that is spreading, with a virus that we don’t yet understand. This mutation could become coronavirus 2.0.”

He says that’s why the government took steps to shut down international travel.

“I know this is a difficult decision. We have no choice. I understand the difficulty that it causes families, travelers, to all. But this decision is critical because we must protect your health and lives,” Netanyahu says.

The decision is in effect for 10 days and may be extended, he says, “until we understand the disease.”