The Israeli government has been given the green light to take emergency measures to combat the coronavirus without the consent of parliament.
MEPs only have to approve them afterwards. That must be done within seven days.
The measure was supported by 29 of the 120 members of the Knesset, the Israeli parliament. 24 were against and the rest were absent.
Opposition member Mickey Levi of the party Yesh Atid called the decision “madness” and spoke about North Korean conditions, according to local media.
Proponents say Israel is going through a tough time when decisions need to be made quickly. The government’s extraordinary powers will remain in force for one month.
In Israel, more than 30,000 people have tested positive for the coronavirus. Hundreds of new infections are added daily. The authorities are, therefore taking new measures to prevent further spread.
For example, the government restricts the maximum number of people in restaurants, buses and places of worship. Swimming pools, cafes, night clubs and other things also had to close again.
