Israel: Thousands demonstrate in Tel Aviv against coalition government deal April 25

Event

Several thousand people gathered in Tel Aviv on Saturday, April 25, to demonstrate against a deal agreed to create a unity government this week that keeps Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in charge. The protesters maintained a distance from each other in line with health regulations in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as they gathered in Rabin Square. Netanyahu is due to face trial next month on charges of fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes. The demonstrators are opposed to having him in power, including influence over judicial appointments, while he is a criminal suspect.

Further protests are possible in the coming days. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected around any demonstration site.

Context

Netanyahu and the leader of the Blue and White party, Benny Gantz, signed a power-sharing deal on Monday, April 20, that ended a year of political stalemate that has seen three inconclusive elections. Under the agreement, Netanyahu will serve as prime minister for the next 18 months, before the role is rotated to Gantz. The coalition agreement was signed on the premise of the need for unity to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

Advice

Individuals in Israel are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.