Israel Lifts Nationwide Restrictions Following Ceasefire with Iran: Full Return to Routine

The Home Front Command officially announced Tuesday evening the cancellation of all civilian restrictions imposed since the beginning of Operation "Am Kalavi" nearly two weeks ago. This follows the ceasefire agreement with Iran that came into effect earlier today.

While the “special situation” status on the home front remains in place—extended by government decision until next Monday—the country is transitioning back to full activity.

All Civilian Restrictions Lifted Nationwide

According to the IDF Spokesperson, after a security assessment and with approval from Defense Minister Yisrael Katz, it was decided that starting at 8:00 PM tonight, all regions of Israel would move to full activity levels without restrictions.

However, security guidelines in the Gaza border area ("the envelope") remain under the purview of the IDF's Southern Command, due to ongoing military activity in the Gaza Strip.

Airports and Transportation Resume Full Operations

The Airports Authority announced the immediate return to full operations at Ben Gurion and Haifa airports. All previous restrictions on flight schedules, passenger numbers, and access to terminals have been lifted. Duty-free shops will also reopen starting tomorrow morning.

The Ministry of Transportation confirmed that all public transportation services and industrial sectors will resume full routine operations.

Gradual Reopening of Education System

About three hours before the Home Front Command’s official announcement, Education Minister Yoav Kish instructed that the decision to reopen schools would rest with individual local authorities, based on their readiness and security situation.

The Ministry of Education emphasized a phased and flexible return to in-person learning, beginning tomorrow, with each local authority coordinating the reopening of schools and kindergartens.

“Returning to school on the first day will not be mandatory,” Minister Kish clarified, urging cooperation between local authorities and ministry officials to ensure a safe return to classrooms.

In Beersheba, where a missile struck a building earlier today, the municipality announced schools would resume only the day after tomorrow, contingent on the continued calm.

Cultural Events Begin to Reopen

The entertainment and culture sectors are also preparing to resume operations. Cinemas are expected to reopen tomorrow, while live performances and shows are anticipated to return by the middle of next week.

Some artists have announced cancellations, while others are working to reschedule shows depending on the evolving security situation.

Background: Restrictions Following U.S. Attack on Iran

The restrictions lifted today were initially imposed following the U.S. military strike on Iran, which prompted the IDF to raise the national threat level and enforce strict limits on public gatherings, work activity, and education.

The Home Front Command had moved the entire country to a “necessary activity” status, limiting movement and economic activity nationwide.

Looking Ahead

The Ministry of Education stated its goal is for all Israeli students to complete the school year in their educational institutions. For areas where infrastructure or staffing issues remain, the ministry promises full support until all children return to a “safe and supportive educational environment.”