Updated Guidelines for Essential Industries Amid 'Am K’Lavi' Operation

Following the security escalation and the transition to emergency procedures under the 'Am K’Lavi' operation, the Ministry of Economy has issued updated guidelines regarding the operation of essential industries - particularly those defined as part of the 'vital economy'.

The guidelines were formulated in coordination with the National Emergency Authority (NEA) and apply to all essential entities in the economy, including manufacturers, service providers, distributors, and other actors in the supply chain.

The main guidelines are:

1. Continuation of work is conditional on access to a protected space - activity will be permitted only in facilities where there is safe access to a protected space according to the warning time required by the Home Front Command.
2. Minimize manpower to the necessary minimum - factories will operate under minimal manpower only, defined as essential for maintaining regular activity.
3. No need to apply for operation - any factory or entity in the economy that meets the definition of a 'vital economy' is allowed to continue its activity according to the rules, without the need for special approval.

According to the Ministry of Economy, a 'vital economy' is defined as all production, supply, and service factors essential for the survival of the civilian population, supporting the security effort, and maintaining economic stability - even if those bodies are not officially recognized as essential factories. This means that the logistics supply chain, including transportation, shipping, food, energy, communications, and health sectors - is allowed to operate within the limitations set.

The practical implication: logistical, port, transportation, and manufacturing bodies that constitute a critical part of the economy or national security, will be able to continue operating from Sunday morning - as long as they comply with the defined safety rules.

In parallel, the Ministry of Economy and Industry announced the activation of a dedicated emergency center to provide information and assistance on issues under its responsibility, including: emergency tariff rates, locating open marketing network branches ('Iron Branches'), factory and industry activity, assistance to small and medium businesses, as well as information on import and export issues.

The center will start operating by phone from Sunday between the hours of 08:00-19:00, at the short number 6586*.