President Reuven Rivlin together with Defense Minister Naftali Bennett on Thursday visited the Israel Institute for Biological Research in Nes Ziona, where researchers revealed that they had successfully developed a series of antibodies to combat the coronavirus.
It was the second such breakthrough this week by IIBR scientists, who earlier this week said they had successfully isolated a key coronavirus antibody.
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Bennet, on Monday, called the step a "significant breakthrough" toward a possible treatment for SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that is the source of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rivlin met with the scientists spearheading the development of a series of antibodies that effectively neutralize the violent virus through various mechanisms originating in infected people.
The president also discussed the possibility of building a vaccine production plant in Yeroham in southern Israel and urged Bennett to expedite its construction.
IIBR scientists believe the technological breakthrough could shorten the process of finding a cure, which will span several months, and should provide protection even if the virus mutates.
In the coming days, the IIBR will file a patent for the antibodies it developed and later publish their work in a scientific journal for peer-based review.
"Last week we celebrated 72 years of independence, and biological independence is critical for the State of Israel," Rivlin said during his visit. "The entire world is hoping for the day an antibody is found, a vaccine, a cure or treatment that will allow us to save lives. From my conversations with world leaders, it's apparent that when it comes to breakthroughs and innovation, their eyes are on us.
"The process is complex and lengthy, but any breakthrough you achieve is a significant step toward victory. I'm hopeful that the 'deliverer will come out of Zion' – a delivery that will help us guarantee the health of anyone whose life is in danger, allow us to free grandma and grandpa and the entire at-risk population from this difficult quarantine, and to liberate the entire economy," the president said.
"This institution is our pride," he told the researchers. "Thank you, you are the glory of the State of Israel."
Bennett said: "This is a great day for Israel. This is another tremendous Israeli breakthrough in less than a week, which will help us cope not only with the current strain of the coronavirus but with possible mutations. I instructed the defense establishment and the IIBR to move ahead at the highest speed to develop a mass cure. We will not spare money or resources and do everything in our power to shorten the time it takes to have a commercial medicine."
