Defense Minister Naftali Bennett announced on Thursday, in coordination with the IDF and Palestinian Authority (PA), a closure of Bethlehem due to concerns on the spreading of coronavirus. Both Israelis and Palestinians will be restricted from entering and leaving the city.

The decision by Bennett to close the city was made on the basis of several cases of coronavirus originating from the Bethlehem area.

The closure will take effect on Thursday evening until a new announcement is made on access.

Palestinian Authority President Abbas also declared a 'state of emergency' in Palestinian territories for 30 days after 7 coronavirus cases were confirmed in Bethlehem.

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