Israel Cancels Schools and Purim Celebrations as IDF Home Front Command Restricts Public Gatherings

Israel's Education Ministry announced all schools would transition to distance learning amid ongoing Iranian missile strikes. The IDF Home Front Command ordered the closure of all educational institutions, non-essential workplaces, and houses of worship — including synagogues and mosques — through Monday evening, March 2. The restrictions are expected to heavily curtail Purim celebrations, which begin Monday at sundown and are traditionally celebrated with public costume events and synagogue readings.