© Archyde.com
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant called on the government on Saturday to suspend legislation for changes to the judiciary, saying the extremely heated dispute over the measures posed a danger to national security.
“The deepening division that permeates the military and defense establishment is a clear, immediate and real danger to Israel’s security,” Gallant said in a brief televised statement.
Gallant’s call drew support from at least two of his Likud party lawmakers, Yuli Edelstein and David Bitan, who said the reforms should be made with broad consensus.
It is unclear whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is wrapping up a visit to London and aims to finalize legislation on at least one bill next week, will heed their call.
Netanyahu – on trial for corruption, which he denies – is under pressure from others in his ruling coalition who want him to press ahead this week with a bill that would give them more influence in selecting judges.
Israeli media reported that around 200,000 Israelis protested the plan in Tel Aviv on Saturday, with tens of thousands more across the country.
Far-right Police Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called on Netanyahu to fire Galant, who he said had bowed to opposition pressure.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid praised Gallant’s “courageous step” and said he was ready for talks on reforms after the government suspended the legislation.
Gallant said he supports reforming the justice system, but it must be done by broad consensus. But with a solid majority of 64 seats in parliament, the coalition would still have enough votes without him.
The defense chief previously raised concerns about a wave of Israelis vowing not to comply with call-ups for reservists if the reforms go ahead, saying it could weaken readiness for war.
The judicial reform plan, announced on January 4, plunged Israel into its worst political crisis in years as mass protests swept the country. It also sparked concern abroad and warnings of a severe economic backlash.