Israel removes all red-listed countries, easing COVID-19 restrictions

Oct. 1 (UPI) -- Israel moved to ease restrictions on travel into the country, allowing the remainder of countries designated as "red" because of their COVID-19 infection rates the government announced Friday.

Visitors from Bulgaria, Brazil and Turkey will be able to travel to Israel regardless of their vaccination status starting Monday. Their removal from the list following recommendations of a Health Ministry Committee.

Health Ministry Director-General Nachman Ash said a fourth COVID-19 wave that began in late June is coming to an end. On Thursday, the country recorded 4,313 new infections, showing a downward trend.

Meanwhile, nearly 1.5 million Israelis who haven't gotten booster shots may lose their Green Pass on Sunday. The pass provides proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 test and allows residents to attend events and enter businesses

More than 100,000 Israelis received a dose Thursday -- including booster shots, and first and second doses -- the highest rate in almost a month.