Cities with large ultra-Orthodox populations see big jump in new diagnoses; police minister says cops carrying out 'unprecedented enforcement' in Bnei Brak

Health Ministry official says authorities deeply concerned Israelis will hold Seder night with extended family, leading to surge in virus infections

Decision only applies to Israeli residents near release, not those serving time for security or sexual-related offenses; Defense Ministry looking to open 20 more quarantine hotels

In scenes thought impossible only hours earlier, Thursday evening saw Israel Resilience party chief praised by Smotrich and Bennett, as Miri Regev chummily called him 'my neighbor'

Late night discussions over new lockdown regulations sees officials' pet priorities come to the fore, and an argument about how Israelis should shop for the holidays

Public security minister stresses need for tolerance and understanding as cops begin enforcing new rules prohibiting venturing far from home, shutting synagogues

As Netanyahu, ministers weigh further steps to curb virus, report says men over 70 and women over 65 may be ordered to shelter in place, other ideas also being considered

24 people in serious condition from virus; over 5,000 tests administered in 24 hours; police minister reiterates call for full closure for 2 weeks

Decision applies to Israeli residents close to release, serving time for criminal activities, and who are not considered dangerous or jailed for security offenses

As controversial tracking starts, people who were in close contact with those confirmed to have COVID-19 are informed by text message they must home-quarantine