Malls, gyms, entertainment, hotels reopen on Sunday

The coronavirus cabinet on Monday approved Stage 2 of the coronavirus exit plan going into effect on Sunday, instead of Tuesday. This was a concession to Defense Minister Benny Gantz who wanted the relaxations to take effect immediately. All retail trade, including shopping malls, entertainment, hotels (without food) and sports events will reopen on Sunday, according to health rules. Some will be restricted to holders of “vaccination passports.”  Primary school classes will be reduced to small groups. As for the Purim festival in a week’s time, the traditional masked parades, processions and parties are banned to avoid crowding, and synagogue congregations limited.