JERUSALEM, (Reuters) - Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant yesterday called on the government to halt legislation on changes to the judiciary, saying the bitter dispute over the measures poses a danger to national security.

“The deepening split is seeping into the military and defence institutions this 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 fellow Likud party lawmakers, Yuli Edelstein and David Bitan, who said reforms should be made with broad agreement.

It was unclear whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, wrapping up a visit to London and aiming to finalise legislation on at least one bill in the coming week, would heed their call.

Netanyahu - on trial for corruption, which he denies - is under pressure from others in his ruling coalition who want him to proceed this week with a bill that would grant them more sway in selecting judges.

Far-right police minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged Netanyahu to fire Gallant, who he said had caved to opposition pressure.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid praised Gallant’s “brave step” and said he was ready for talks on the reforms once the government stops the legislation.

Gallant said he supported reforming the justice system but this must be done with broad agreement. But with a solid 64seat majority in parliament,