Israel lifts most civilian restrictions, eases gathering limits in frontline areas

The IDF Home Front Command announced updated defensive guidelines effective Friday, April 17, 2026, at 16:00 through Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 20:00. The entire country will return to full activity levels with no restrictions, except for frontline areas where gatherings will be limited to 1,000 people until Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 20:00. After that time, the gathering restriction in frontline areas will also be lifted. The Home Front Command will continue conducting situational assessments and will communicate any changes to civilian defense policies to the public.