In shadow of pandemic, Israel prepares for 1st socially distanced Memorial Day, with military cemeteries to be shut as precaution and the country placed on lockdown

Family project succeeds in cultivating plant, producing memorial pins that connect ancient legend of heroism with modern day martyrs

Fines for violating social distancing rules are doubled and those caught without a mask will now pay up without an initial warning; malls to stay shut

In addition, 33 disabled veterans pass away due to injuries sustained during their service; official numbers published ahead of commemoration events

Bereaved families and a former comrade visit graves of fallen soldiers on Mount Herzl before the gates are closed, as nation prepares for its first coronavirus Yom Hazikaron

Families urged to visit graves of loved ones in days leading up to national day of mourning to prevent crowding and potentially spreading coronavirus

Reopened IKEA draws crowds, lottery booths given permission to resume activities, raising ire of still-shuttered stores, as well as ministers

Defense minister defends decision to bar families of fallen soldiers from visiting loved ones' graves, says alternative solutions were considered but ultimately rejected

Government decision seeks to prevent gatherings; in Arab towns and cities, lockdown to be implemented in evenings only

Despite coronavirus closure, some families of fallen soldiers insist they will visit their loved ones' graves 'at all costs'