Thousands at ‘protest party’ in Tel Aviv, smaller demonstration in Jerusalem

25 April 2023, 8:58 pm Edit

Demonstrators protesting the government's planned judicial overhaul, protest outside the official state ceremony celebrating Israel's 75th Independence Day, at Mt. Herzl, Jerusalem. April 25, 2023. (Arie Leib Abrams/Flash90)

Thousands of people gather in Tel Aviv for an Independence Day “protest party” as anti-government demonstrations continue.

The demonstration comes at the same time as the official ceremony is being held in Jerusalem, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issues a call for unity.

Several hundred protesters also gathered outside the Mount Herzl site of the ceremony.

In Tel Aviv, crowds gathered on Kaplan Street, waving Israeli flags and dancing to upbeat music.

“Israel is marking 75 years since its founding under a massive attack on Israeli democracy that is dividing the nation,” organizers say in a statement. “Against the attack are standing millions of Israelis who love our country and are not willing to give up on the smallest iota of democracy and equality.”

Demonstrations are planned in several cities across the country.