But the increasing use of such technology
against civilians has raised privacy concerns and
difficult questions about how far authorities can
or should go to curb the pandemic.
The drone used outside the apartment complex
in the Tel Aviv area was deployed by police
checking in on patients who have been ordered
to self-isolate.
Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld says police
are using drones across the country to “find
and confirm that people with the coronavirus
are in isolation” in accordance with Health
Ministry regulations.
“Units on the ground are using drones in high-
story buildings and making visual confirmation,”
he said.
The virus causes mild to moderate flu-like
symptoms in most patients, who recover within
a few weeks. But it is highly contagious and
can cause severe illness or death, particularly
in older people or those with underlying
health problems.
Israel has reported more than 11,800 cases
and at least 117 deaths. Like many other
countries, it has closed down schools and
businesses and imposed strict stay-at-home
orders. Those who test positive for the new
coronavirus are required to isolate themselves,
and anyone flouting regulations face fines or
even arrest.
Police have used drones to enforce lockdowns
in other countries, including Italy, France, Spain
and China. They have been used to enforce
social distancing in New York City and New
Jersey. India has also used drones to monitor
its lockdown.