Israel announces city of Bnei Brak restricted area due to high COVID-19 infection rate

The Israeli government has declared the Jewish ultra-Orthodox city of Bnei Brak a restricted area because of the high infection rate of COVID-19, Israel's Prime Minister Office said Thursday.

According to data published by the Israeli Ministry of Health, Bnei Brak, located in central Israel, has the highest rate of coronavirus infections among all Israeli cities.

The restriction was imposed under emergency regulations approved by the government, according to which it may declare certain areas where there are indications of significant morbidity and high coronavirus infection rates as "restricted areas."

This measure will allow to restrict entering and exiting the restricted area in order to maintain public health.

Thus, residents of restricted areas will be allowed to leave only for essential medical care, legal proceedings or a funeral of a close family member.

The Israeli government also decided to impose a 14-day quarantine obligation in a designated facility for those who return from abroad and unable to undergo quarantine at home.

The government meeting was held in a video conference call after it was announced on Wednesday night that Israeli Health Minister Yaakov Litzman was tested positive with coronavirus.

As a result, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has entered quarantine due to contact with Litzman in recent days.