Israel to close synagogues as part of stricter virus measures

As part of stricter measures Israel on Wednesday announced plan to close synagogues in its fight against the spread of the coronavirus, Israeli media reported.
The new measures reportedly also restrict Israelis from going more than 100 metres from their homes and allow only one person per household per day to go out for supplies.
Under current rules, no more than 10 people are allowed to gather in closed spaces, though many have disregarded the measure, especially in ultra-Orthodox neighbourhoods.
A recent analysis by an Israeli Health Information Centre found out that nearly 25 per cent of people who were infected with the coronavirus contracted it at a synagogue.
The Chief rabbis of Israel have called for millions of Jews to participate in a joint prayer, each person separately at home for an end to the coronavirus.
According to reports, several senior Orthodox rabbis have given permission for people to use videoconference technology during the upcoming Passover Seder feast to speak with their relatives.
The use of electronic devices and electricity is banned during the Sabbath, or Shabbat, and festivals under most Orthodox religious rules.
Israel has recorded over 2,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus, including five deaths.