Strict measures have been applied by Palestinian authorities in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip ahead of a third wave of coronavirus infections. The Middle East Monitor reports that the number of people who have been infected has recently increased.

Palestinian health authorities have recorded 549 new cases over the past 24 hours, while Palestinian Health Minister, Mai Al-Kaila, announced three deaths. In the Gaza Strip, three had been admitted to intensive care, despite not suffering from any co-morbidities. MEMO reports that health authorities have warned that the youth are driving the virus.

Several schools and mosques located in “red zones” in Gaza have been closed, due to the rising number of infections.

Palestinian Prime Minister Muhammad Shtayyeh had announced a raft of measures last week, to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Penalties for those violating the Health Ministry’s protocols, such as neglecting to wear a mask, or holding social gatherings have also been made tougher.

Umm Muhammed Umar