Lifting Israel’s coronavirus restrictions - here’s what you need to know
We are returning to action. These are the phases of Israel's strategic exit plan.
By MAAYAN JAFFE-HOFFMANIsraelis walking in Jerusalem on the first day after Passover 2020 (photo credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM)
“We are returning to action,” said Health Ministry director-general Moshe Bar Siman-Tov on Tuesday afternoon during a media briefing, the day after the government and Health Ministry lifted another set of restrictions from the Israeli public. Now, it is easier for people to see their loved ones, work out and take advantage of spring weather. At the same time, the ministry is monitoring to ensure that people remain safe and cases of the virus do not increase too fast. Israelis are asked to wear masks in public spaces, maintain a two-meter distance from one another and wash their hands regularly.“If we are careful, we will beat coronavirus,” Bar Siman Tov said.The following is the country’s strategic exit plan, which will be rolled out in phases.Now:
No limit on movement from home
Up to 20 people can gather in an open space
Visits with first-degree relatives, including the elderly with their children and grandchildren are permitted
Sports in pairs (going to beaches is prohibited except for sports activity in the sea)
Libraries, nature reserves, heritage sites, national parks, zoos and safaris open
Hotels and guest houses also open
Circumcisions attended by up to 19 people (as opposed to 10)
Still in force:
19 people for prayers in an open space (because 20 can make two separate quorums)
Stores may not open between 19:30 p.m. and 3 a.m. in Muslim-majority communities (extended through May 10)
Ministerial Committee on Emergency Restrictions can continue to declare communities or sections of communities restricted (until June 2)
Increased force: Mikvaot (ritual baths) – a person must now be assigned by the operator to ensure that rules are maintainedMay 7:
Malls and open-air markets open (no more than one person per two meters; regular disinfection required; no sitting for the purpose of eating)
