Iran allowed some businesses in the capital and nearby towns to reopen after weeks of lockdown aimed at containing the worst coronavirus outbreak in the Middle East.
Israel also announced an easing of its own lockdown measures from Sunday.
Israel has also imposed tight lockdown measures in recent weeks to contain an outbreak, including closures of many businesses, forcing most workers at operating businesses to work from home and bans on public worship and exercise.
In a televised address on Saturday night, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the measures had been largely successful and announced plans to begin easing restrictions in the coming days.
He said some small businesses and hi-tech companies would be allowed to reopen, more people could return to their offices, and small public prayers and limited exercise could take place. Special education classes and certain childcare arrangements will resume.
Mr Netanyahu said the measures would be reviewed after two weeks. Depending on their success, restrictions would be further eased at that time.
Israel, which imposed nationwide restrictions and ordered all non-essential businesses to close in mid-March, had as of Sunday 13,362 cases, including 171 deaths.
Read the article in The Australian (AFP).