The damage to Israel’s economy from the war with Iran could reach 9.4 billion shekels ($3 billion) per week if nationwide restrictions on economic activity remain in place, Israel’s Ministry of Finance warned, according to Times of Israel.

In a letter sent to Home Front Command chief Major General Shay Clapper on Wednesday, Finance Ministry Director General Ilan Rom asked for restrictions to be eased to allow a gradual, partial reopening of businesses and workplaces as early as Thursday.

“No one disputes the need to maintain defense policies adapted to the security situation, but at the same time a massive economic slowdown entails heavy economic costs,” Rom warned in his letter.

“We need a solution that meets both the security needs on the home front and the needs of the economy, after two and a half years during which the economy has paid a high economic price in light of increased security needs and the consequences of the [Hamas] war,” he added. After Israel and the United States jointly launched an offensive against Iran on Saturday, triggering retaliatory missile strikes by the Islamic Republic, the Israel Defense Forces’ Home Front Command issued nationwide guidelines banning all gatherings, educational activities, and workplaces except essential businesses.

The guidelines restrict commuting and force employees to work from home, while schools remain closed.