"Israeli Protests Persist as Overhaul Battle Intensifies"

Thousands of protesters gathered across Israel for the 26th week of demonstrations against the government's plans to limit judicial oversight. The main rally in Tel Aviv drew an estimated 130,000 participants, with nationwide turnout claimed to be around 286,000. Some protesters briefly blocked a highway, resulting in several arrests. The protests also took place in other locations, including near the President's Residence in Jerusalem. Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai criticized government moves related to religion and state, while Rabbi Shlomo Brin condemned settler attacks on Palestinians. Opposition leader Yair Lapid denied claims of compromise agreements, and academic staff members expressed support for the demonstrations. Protest organizers accused the government of attempting a regime coup and called for resistance in legal and nonviolent ways.