Erbil Introduces New Restrictions as Virus Cases Spike Sharply

ARK News… Authorities in the Kurdistan Region's capital Erbil on Sunday introduced new restrictions to curb the spread of Covid-19, as the region has begun to see a rapid increase in the number of infections.

The new decisions were made during a meeting of the Erbil Operations Room chaired by Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed, in which it was also decided to take legal actions against anyone found not wearing a face mask in the province.

The security forces will be monitoring the situation to ensure the new restrictions are followed by the citizens, a readout of the meeting said.

Drivers, as well as passengers, are both expected to adhere to the guidelines and wear masks.

No public ceremonies, weddings, graduation parties, funerals, or sports activities will be allowed until further notice.

Night clubs, cafes, bars, or other similar sites must be closed from midnight.

Restaurants, marketplaces, malls, resorts, and other public sites will remain open as long as the health guidelines are followed and masks are worn.

According to the readout, Ahmed will meet with the Minister of Education and Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research to review the mechanism of this year's study in order to better cope with the epidemic situation.

The new measures will go into effect on October 26, at 11:59 pm.

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