Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent
The IDF Home Front Command says its current wartime guidelines remain unchanged until at least Wednesday night, meaning schools remain closed in most parts of the country.
By Wednesday at 8 p.m., another assessment will be conducted by the Home Front Command.
Home Front Command guidelines issued on March 16, 2026. (Israel Defense Forces)
Under the current guidelines, educational institutions can operate, provided there is an adequate shelter that can be reached in time, in the following areas: the Beit Shean Valley, Jordan Valley, West Bank, Dead Sea area, West Lachish, Gaza border communities, Western Negev, Southern Negev, and Arava.
Gatherings of up to 100 people indoors and 50 people outdoors are also permitted, under the same conditions in those areas.
In the rest of the country, educational activities are still prohibited. Gatherings of up to 50 people are allowed, provided a shelter can be reached in time, and workplaces can operate under the same conditions.
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From the Liveblog of
Monday, March 16, 2026
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