Ultra-Orthodox lawmakers not expected to back extending tightened lockdown -- TV

The Health Ministry is pushing to extend the tightened lockdown measures now in force, but opposition from Blue and White and ultra-Orthodox measures could lead to the lockdown measures expiring Thursday night as scheduled, Channel 12 news reports.

The network cites unnamed ministers criticizing the timing of an expected cabinet meeting on Wednesday, saying it is meant to reduce opposition to extending the lockdown. Sources close to Prime Minister Netanyahu deny such a motivation and say they want the most up-to-date figures possible.

The Health Ministry is set to argue that if the lockdown isn’t extended, the basic reproduction rate won’t drop below one, but the report says officials believe it will be hard to secure ultra-Orthodox support, as an extention would mean schools will be ordered to remain closed for longer.