ByDR. ITAY GAL

JUNE 8, 2026 09:16

After rocket attacks from Iran triggered alerts nationwide, the Home Front Command declared Sunday evening that all defense zones would enter restricted activity status with updated guidelines.

These steps feature complete shutdown of schools, postponement of tests, and stricter rules for public assemblies along with work operations.

The policy applies from Sunday, June 7, 2026, at 10 p.m. until Monday, June 8, 2026, at 8 p.m. Regular assessments by the Home Front Command will keep the public informed of any changes.

Education

The Education Ministry confirmed that all schools and educational frameworks will close Monday per Home Front Command orders, halting classes, matriculation exams, remote sessions, and other activities.

The closure covers every age group from early childhood to high school, including special education, with all student transport halted. The biology matriculation exam was delayed, and further updates on remaining weekly tests will follow.

A coordination meeting is set for 10 a.m. in the ministry situation room to review options with the Home Front Command and local bodies, deciding between extended closure through the school year or temporary solutions. Updates will reach authorities and residents promptly.

Higher education institutions such as the University of Haifa, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, and the Hebrew University have closed campuses to in-person events, shifting most work and studies online except for essential staff.

"Closing the education system right away is a prudent and essential step. Protecting students, staff, and families remains the top priority amid genuine threats to the home front," stated Oren Ozan, chairman of the National Parents Leadership.

Workplaces

Under restricted activity rules, routine operations may continue only in structures offering timely access to protected spaces. Sites lacking this feature must suspend activity.

With schools shut, many parents must remain home. Law prohibits dismissing staff absent to care for children up to age 14 or those with special needs up to age 21 when closures stem from Home Front Command directives.

Compensation for absences typically follows collective agreements or later Finance Ministry frameworks, so initial days may draw from vacation balances. Public sector workers received guidance to handle duties remotely where feasible.

Transportation

The Transportation Ministry noted public transit continues at roughly 75 percent of standard levels despite the emergency.

Israel Railways and light rail services in Jerusalem and the Dan Region run normally for now, while the Haifa cable car has paused until further notice.

Travelers should consult operator centers or the national hotline at *8787 prior to journeys.

Underground stations on the Red Line light rail in the Dan Region serve as public shelters during alerts, excluding Karkalit Station. Staffed around the clock and approved by the Home Front Command, active stations include:

In Tel Aviv: Allenby, Yehudit, Shaul HaMelech, Arlozorov.

In Ramat Gan: Bialik, Abba Hillel. In Bnei Brak: Ben-Gurion, Aharonovitch.

In Petah Tikva: Em HaMoshavot.

Meanwhile numerous local authorities have opened underground parking and school shelters for resident use.

Ben-Gurion Airport

Ben-Gurion Airport maintains normal operations with scheduled flights proceeding. Transportation Minister Miri Regev conducted an assessment with Director-General Moshe Ben-Zaken and aviation experts, resulting in a decision to keep airspace open at present.

The Israel Airports Authority reported no operational shifts at the airport, with activity continuing as planned while monitoring proceeds. Expanded attacks would prompt further decisions and updated guidance.

Arkia indicated Thursday morning that all scheduled flights should depart on time based on security assessments. Passengers are urged to verify status directly with airlines before heading to the terminal.

Healthcare system

Following a Supreme Hospitalization Authority meeting, the Health Ministry director-general directed hospitals to follow sealed protocols, relocate to underground areas, and ready staff for swift transition to full emergency mode alongside IDF support. Facilities must also prepare for quick release of mildly ill patients.

Per these directives, all Monday surgeries at Assuta Haifa were canceled, and appointments plus tests including MRI scans at the Acre center were suspended, with patients notified accordingly.

Community and well-baby clinics nationwide will function solely in buildings with standard protected spaces or immediate proximity to them.

Events industry

Restricted activity significantly disrupts the events sector. Home Front Command rules ban gatherings exceeding 200 people outdoors or 500 indoors.

Consequently weddings and large Monday events require cancellation, postponement, or downsizing. Cultural venues, theaters, and cinemas have canceled performances and screenings for the day. Residents should contact venues or ticket offices directly. Beaches nationwide are closed to swimming.

Essential services

Food retailers, pharmacies, and vital services continue normally if equipped with standard protected spaces. No stockpiling is required as supply chains function.

Malls and shopping centers operate only with protected space for all occupants and adherence to gathering caps of up to 500 indoors. Verification with individual sites is advised before visits.

Bank branches and Israel Post run reduced services solely in protected locations. Online platforms and apps stay fully operational for transactions.