Coronavirus in Israel: Police Breaking Up Holiday Gatherings Met With Violence

As the world continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic, Israel and the Palestinians are working to curb the spread of COVID-19 among their populations.

■ 16,526 people in Israel have so far tested positive for the coronavirus; 258 people have died. In the West Bank and East Jerusalem, 547 people tested positive; two people have died. In the Gaza Strip, 20 people were diagnosed, 14 of which recovered. 

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■ The Israeli government approved a series of steps to ease the lockdown restrictions, including allowing group prayer, partial reopening of the economy and stores, and fines for not wearing masks in public. Some coronavirus wards started closing as cases decline.

■ Coronavirus tracker: Live stats of cases and deaths

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11:15 A.M. Youth movements and groups to resume activities on June 14

Youth movements and groups in Israel will continue their activities on June 14. Meretz lawmaker Nitzan Horowitz, who is chairman of the Knesset's special committee that is overseeing preparations for the next school year, said: "It doesn't make sense that children and adolescents can meet in malls and in parks but not in an organized activity by youth movements." Health Ministry spokeswoman Efrat Aflalo said the National Security Conucil was advising the government on the matter and that she was not authorized to give her personal position. (Shira Kadari-Ovadia)