Thousands rally in Tel Aviv in support of democracy in Israel

[LeftishBrit]

Approximately 2,000 protesters rallied in Habima Square in Tel Aviv on Tuesday against the series of Knesset bills seen by them as draconian and anti-democratic.

The rally came after on Monday a contentious bill toughing Israel's libel passed its first hurdle in the Knesset, passing first reading despite vocal resistance from both opposition and coalition members.

...The bill represents an amendment to Israel's existing libel law, which would make it possible to sue a newspaper for libel, not only for commensurate compensation for any tangible damage caused by the publication, but for an additional sum of NIS 300,000 − without having to prove damages.

...After the Tuesday rally, hundreds of protesters began blocking roads, including the junctions of Rothchild Boulevard and Marmorek, and the corner of King George and Bograshov.


http://www.haaretz.com/news/national/thousands-rally-in-tel-aviv-in-support-of-democracy-in-israel-1.397150HIY