20,000 Israelis Demonstrated Against Government Corruption, Netanyahu

On Saturday, Reuters estimated that about 20,000 Israelis demonstrated against government corruption and Prime Minister (PM) Benjamin Netanyahu, in Tel Aviv.

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Demonstrators protested legislation they say is designed to protect Netanyahu. The four-term leader is currently being investigated on claims of abuse of office.

The draft legislation would block Israel's police from publishing findings and issuing recommendations to the prosecutor's office on indictments related to public officials. The bill comes up for a second reading in the Knesset, on Monday.

The PM is accused of receiving gifts from wealthy businessmen as well as negotiating with a newspaper for better coverage in return for curbs on a rival daily.

The first, known as Case 1000, involves allegations that he received cigars, champagne, cash and other gifts from Israeli-born Hollywood mogul Arnon Milchan and Australian billionaire James Packer. The second, known as Case 2000, alleges that the PM tried to negotiate positive coverage with the owner of Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper in exchange for cutting circulation of the pro-Netanyahu Israel Hayom – backed by U.S. casino magnate and major political donor Sheldon Adelson.

Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing.

He, in turn, described himself as a victim of a political witch hunt and said of the cases against him: “There will be nothing because there is nothing.”

But, if he is charged, he could be pressured to resign or call a snap election.

Saturday's protests were the largest among weekly gatherings against the PM.