04 Jul 2021 | 08:28 PM UTC
Palestinian Territories: Authorities extend COVID-19-related state of emergency in the West Bank until Aug. 3 /update 57
Authorities extend COVID-19-related state of emergency in the West Bank, Palestinian Territories until at least Aug. 3.
Event
Authorities in the West Bank have extended their existing state of emergency until at least Aug. 3 due to concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19 variants. The measure grants authorities the power to enact localized lockdowns in areas witnessing spikes in disease activity.
The Palestinian Authority (PA) had previously eased some COVID-19 restrictions in the West Bank. Restaurants, stores, and industrial sector businesses were allowed to increase their operating capacities to 50 percent and expand their operating hours to include Saturdays; banks have reopened but are providing limited services. Nevertheless, given that the PA has issued no official updates since April 10, the precise measures that are currently in force in the West Bank are unclear. As of April, restrictions including a territory-wide nightly 19:00-06:00 curfew, a ban on travel between governorates, and a 24-hour Friday curfew were in effect until further notice.
In the Gaza Strip, vehicular travel remains prohibited on Fridays and Saturdays until further notice. Wedding halls and popular weekly markets are closed. Authorities have reiterated that funerals and weddings may no longer take place outdoors on public streets or in private homes. All gatherings in public areas and parks are banned. All individuals must wear protective face coverings and adhere to social distancing guidelines when in public. All travelers arriving in Gaza must quarantine at government-run facilities for up to 21 days. The Rafah and Erez border crossings are operating; however, travel is limited to urgent cases, notably humanitarian missions.
Officials could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Border crossings between Israel and the Palestinian Territories may close with little-to-no advance notice.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.
