Ministers set to vote on reopening eateries, attractions, hotels, some schools

The coronavirus cabinet is expected to approve rules for the next phase of economy reopening over the next several hours, shortly before they come into effect tomorrow.

The formulation of the new easing of lockdown restrictions has again been fraught with disagreements, delays and politics, especially with the March 23 Knesset elections looming closer while coronavirus infections are still high despite the widespread vaccination campaign.

The vote, which was delayed from yesterday, is expected to approve reopening restaurants under restrictive conditions that are yet to be finalized, as well as reopening some schools, cafes, event venues, attractions and hotels — with some of the activities available only to those with Green Passes signaling they are immunized against the virus.

The holdup has frustrated some business owners, who need to carry out lengthy preparations before reopening. Restaurateurs have expressed outrage about reported “shameful and disrespectful” changes to the proposed framework in a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

According to Channel 12 news, the new framework will allow restaurants to serve up to 100 customers with Green Passes indoors, and 100 more outdoors (including those without a Green Pass).