Thousands of Arab Israeli protesters marched in favour of a right of return of millions of Palestinians today, the same day Israel celebrated its
independence.
The Israelis of Palestinian origin were seen carrying Palestinian flags and others holding up signs demanding the right to return for refugees at the rally in the Negev desert.
Organisers said it was the first time such a demonstration has been held in the Negev.
Israeli Jews, in contrast, celebrated in public parties in two very different sets of reactions to the 68th anniversary of Israel's founding.
Israelis hail independence day as what they call the reformation of the Jewish state.