Protests against new Israeli government in Tel Aviv

By Nathan Morley

Thousands of Israelis have protested plans by the new government that they say threaten democracy and freedoms.

On Saturday, more than 10,000 protesters gathered in Tel Aviv, days after the most right-wing government in the country's history took office.

Those taking to the streets argue that anticipated plans by the new Cabinet will hinder the judicial system and widen gaps in society.

Whilst some demonstrators called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ‘dangerous, corrupt and racist,’ others called for peace and co-existence between Jews and Arab residents.

Some accused the new coalition administration of targeting Arabs and discriminating on the basis of both gender and sexuality.

A week of unpleasant headlines

It has been a week of unpleasant headlines for the new Israeli government.

Just last week, Palestinian officials condemned as a provocation the visit by Israel’s new far-right security minister, Ben-Gvir, to the Al-Aqsa compound in Jerusalem.

For Muslims, it is considered the third holiest site located inside the old city. That’s why Gvir’s 15-minute walk around was so upsetting for many Muslims.

Known as an ultra-nationalist, Gvir was sworn in as Israel's new national security minister, as Netanyahu's coalition government took office.

After the visit, Palestinian officials said they hold the Israeli Prime Minister responsible for the trip.