Army eases crowd size restrictions in most communities near Gaza

The IDF Home Front Command is easing restrictions in most communities near the Gaza Strip border for the first time since the war began on October 7.

From this evening, gatherings of up to 100 people outdoors and 300 people indoors will be permitted in communities within seven kilometers of the Strip, though 10 communities closest to the Strip are excluded.

Schools will be allowed to operate provided they have an adequate bomb shelter.

The IDF says the new policy is aimed at finding a “balance between saving lives and maintaining routine in an emergency setting.”

In 10 communities — Nirim, Kerem Shalom, Nir Oz, Kissufim, Ein Hashlosha, Sufa, Holit, Netiv Haasara, Kfar Aza, and Nahal Oz — stricter instructions will remain, including capping outdoor gatherings at 50 participants and indoor ones at 100 people.