Cabinet approves plan to relieve coronavirus restrictions

In a stormy overnight online session, Israel’s ministers early Sunday approved the plan announced by the prime minister on Saturday night for the partial lifting of coronavirus restrictions constraining economic and social activity for more than a month. The plan takes effect immediately. Also approved were a NIS200 (app.$50) fine, after due warning, for failure to wear a face mask outside the home, and permission for 10 worshipers (a minyan) to conduct prayers outside the synagogue while maintaining a distance of 2 meters. While some stores are allowed to re-open, the shopping malls remain closed. Several ministers complained about the plan’s publication before it came before the cabinet for review and approval.