On Sunday night, the Israeli cabinet approved a series of measures as part of the coronavirus crisis "exit strategy," which allows for some easing of the nationwide lockdown that has been in place for about a month.
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The relief was felt as various businesses were cleared to carefully resume operations, but there is still a sense of uncertainty. Ministry of Health Legal Adviser Uri Schwartz clarified what new changes mean in an interview with Israel Hayom and other outlets, excerpts of which are below.
Q: Why are people not allowed to venture farther than 100 meters (328 ft.) outside their homes, but are allowed to venture up to 500 meters (1640 ft.) to pray in a group 10 (a minyan)?
There is no epidemiological logic when it comes to a specific distance. The measure is in place to keep people close to home. In the case of minyanim, it makes sense to slightly increase the distance accordingly. The distance allowance for exercise is also 500 meters from home.
Can the Prime Minister, who is a man above the age of 67, continue to go to his place of work?
The prohibition on going to work applies to those above the age of 67 who have not worked during the lockdown thus far. The prime minister has not stopped working up until now, so legally, he can continue working.
Is the public allowed to travel farther than 500 meters in order to go grocery shopping?
Yes.
Why are the parks closed?
The parks are a communal place where people are accustomed to gathering, and this is exactly what we are trying to prevent.
Is nanny sharing between families in separate cities allowed? For example, between a family residing in Tel Aviv and a family residing in Netanya? (Nanny sharing is now allowed between up to three families.)?
Yes.
Does the law of wearing a mask in public apply to sports activities within the 500-meter range [that they are allowed]?
No.
Can one spouse work as a personal trainer?
Yes, but only with one regular client.
What about hobby stores – stationery and toy stores for example – are they allowed to open?
This depends on the store's inventory and what it is used for.
Are children allowed to join parents when they go shopping or on errands?
Ideally, this should be avoided but it's not forbidden by law.
Is it possible to use the takeout or delivery services from restaurants and fast-food chains?
Takeout is forbidden, however ordering delivery is allowed.
Why can't those over the age of 67, who have business or jobs, get back to work using special protective gear and sitting apart from others?
Unless the worker is considered essential and has been to their workplace in the past month, workers over the age of 67 cannot return to work. Of course, there is no restriction on working from home.
