Israel Eases Economic Restrictions Amid Ongoing Conflict: Malls, Restaurants, and Gyms Reopen

Starting today at 12:00 PM, Israel has eased several restrictions on commercial activity, allowing businesses to reopen amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. The Home Front Command announced that gatherings of up to 50 people will be permitted, provided that standard protected spaces are accessible during alarm periods.

Most workplaces, including shopping malls, gyms, restaurants, and cafes, are reopening under the new guidelines. The Big Group was the first to announce that all of its shopping centers would reopen at noon, sending notifications to tenants instructing them to resume operations in accordance with the Home Front Command’s guidance.

The decision follows requests from the Ministry of Finance, which estimated that maintaining the full shutdown costs the economy over 8 billion shekels per week, with a partial reopening potentially saving 5 billion shekels weekly.

Public Transportation Adjustments

Public transportation continues to operate at a reduced rate of 45% capacity. Twenty-nine train stations remain closed, including key hubs such as Tel Aviv HaHagana, Be’er Sheva North, and University stations, mainly due to personnel being reassigned for security duties. The Dan light rail system remains closed to serve as shelters, while the Jerusalem light rail is operating at reduced frequency until 10:00 PM. Bus services are also limited, with some lines still suspended.

Education and Childcare

Schools and kindergartens remain closed until at least next week. Remote classes will continue, while private classes may operate with fewer than 30 students if a protected space is available. Municipal classes and those held in public buildings may face restrictions due to shelters being used for civilians.

Guidelines for Businesses

• Malls and shopping centers can reopen, as they contain multiple protected spaces, including parking lots.

• Restaurants may operate even if their capacity exceeds 50, as long as a protected space is accessible nearby.

• Gyms and personal training sessions of up to 30 participants can resume.

The Home Front Command emphasizes that protected spaces should be reachable within 90 seconds of an alarm. Enforcement is advisory; businesses operating outside the instructions are not subject to penalties by the Command.

Labor Considerations

Attorney Hadas Rakach-Dvir, head of the Labor Law Department at Shiblet Law Firm, noted that the Emergency Worker Protection Law prevents employers from firing employees who cannot attend work due to childcare responsibilities or school closures. Compensation is not guaranteed unless arrangements are agreed upon with the employer, such as remote work or formal leave agreements.

For offices, gatherings are limited to 30 employees, with the recommendation that as many staff as possible work remotely to comply with safety regulations.