On 13 September 2020, the Israeli government authorized a nationwide lockdown, which is set to begin on 18 September, due to an increasing COVID-19 infection rate in the country. The lockdown will begin at 1400 local time (1200 UTC) and last until 9 October. Under the terms of the lockdown, individuals will only be allowed to travel up to 500 m (550 yd) from their residences for exercise. Exemptions are in place for those traveling to workplaces. All schools and nonessential businesses will shut down during the lockdown, although grocery stores and pharmacies will remain open. Indoor gatherings of more than 10 people and outdoor gatherings of more than 20 people are banned.