A message from Minister of Defense Naftali Bennett
7 May, 2020

Hi,

Some big news.

A second antibody breakthrough:

During the past few days, our scientists at the the Israel Institute for
Biological Research (IIBR), have determined a set of 3 more antibodies that
neutralize the novel corona virus (SARS-COV-2).
This is beyond the first antibody, which we already announced.

I've had the unique opportunity to push this project since its inception a
few months ago.

These are incredibly smart, creative and vigorous researchers , who love
their work and care deeply about Israel's security.

Today when meeting them I requested that they move as quickly as possible to
complete the work for a full treatment.

I've ordered Israel's Defense ministery to spare no money or resources to
make this happen.

I view this as Israel's "Manhattan Project" to defeat the Covid-19
pandemic.


This scientific breakthrough has three key parameters:
1. These novel antibodies are fully human monoclonal, selected from COVID-19
patients.
2. These antibodies specifically bind to distinct elements of the aggressive
corona virus.
3. The institute has demonstrated the ability of each of the antibodies to
neutralize the live corona virus (block the virus from infecting cells).

Based on comprehensive scientific publications from around the globe, it
appears that the IIBR is the first institution to achieve a scientific
breakthrough that meets all three of the aforementioned parameters
simultaneously.

The IIBR is currently pursuing a patent for their development, after which
it will contact international manufactures.

It should be emphasized that this scientific achievement has the potential
to progress towards a treatment for corona patients, and that it is not a
vaccine for wide use. This is an important milestone, which will be followed
by a series of complex tests and a process of regulatory approvals.

That said, the scientists at the institute believe that the nature of this
breakthrough could lead to a shortening of the process, which could span
over several months.
________________________________________
IMRA - Independent Media Review and Analysis

Since 1992 providing news and analysis on the Middle East with a focus on Arab-Israeli relations

Website: www.imra.org.il