The Director General of the Ministry of Interior, Israel Ozan, issued a stern communication to the Ramat Hasharon Municipality. He stressed that the current municipal bylaw banning business operations on Shabbat must be upheld, particularly at the Big Fashion complex in Glilot.

This message arrived amid review of the municipality's proposal to revise the bylaw on rest-day openings, an effort aimed at formalizing the site's operations. Ozan made clear that the existing bylaw remains fully effective. Until the Interior Minister grants formal approval for any changes, the authority must follow only the rules in place today.

In his reply to the municipality's legal advisor, Ozan raised multiple professional concerns and key questions about the suggested bylaw. The ministry sought details on the planned extent of openings, the categories of businesses involved, and the essential public need they would serve. Ozan also asked for the evidence base used by the municipality and the staff work done to shape the proposal.

Ozan sharply criticized the municipality's view that the bylaw change merely aligns the legal framework with current practices. He ruled that any legislative update cannot rest on conditions created through ongoing violations and lack of enforcement.

The letter stated that if the goal is to match law to reality, then the situation stems directly from breaches of the rules. Ozan added that there is no basis to accept or overlook a scenario where an offender gains advantage.

Ozan concluded that the responses from Ramat Hasharon so far fail to address the issues adequately. Should the municipality wish to advance the bylaw review, it must supply fresh data, complete staff analysis, and thorough replies to all points raised.

He closed by stating plainly that until the Minister of Interior approves the bylaw, it holds no validity and cannot be applied.