Protest of Druzes turns into violence

As many as 200 Druze demonstrators attacked Israeli police by throwing stones and beating them with belts. Police responded with a baton charge backed by colleagues on horseback.

Some 14 police officers were lightly injured, along with six demonstrators. Some 20 protestors were arrested during the protest.

The demonstrators were protesting a plan by the parliament to unify Druze local authorities in northern Israel, which they fear would result in slashing government funds for their community.

The Druze, a tiny offshoot of Islam founded in the 11th century, count some 50,000 followers based mainly in northern Israel and who are the only Arabs in the Jewish state required to serve in the army