Israel’s cabinet has decided to place the country under closure beginning Friday. The nationwide lockdown will last three weeks, from the eve of the Jewish New Year and throughout the high holiday season.

Addressing Israelis on TV right after the cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the government's decision came after medical experts raised the alarm over the high numbers of people infected with the coronavirus and over the growing number of seriously ill patients. "We were warned of a spike in severe cases that could result in a number of deaths we have not seen before. The winter that is nearing may see seasonal flu added to the coronavirus case load so we must take steps in advance."

Netanyahu said Israelis will be limited from traveling more than 500 meters from their homes except for essential needs like food and medicine. Schools will be closed. Businesses and public sector employers will work at a reduced capacity. Only supermarkets and pharmacies will maintain normal schedules.

“Our goal is to stop the increase and lower morbidity. I know that these steps come at a difficult price for all of us. This is not the holiday we are used to. And we certainly won't be able to celebrate with our extended families,” stated Netanyahu. He also said that the decision to impose a lockdown during the holiday season may have less of an impact on the economy compared with the first lockdown in March, because many workplaces would be closed or at a reduced capacity regardless.