The judicial changes pursued by Netanyahu and his government have sparked an unprecedented crisis in Israel, opening deep divides in society, bruising the economy and drawing concern from Western allies.

Israel's democratic foundations are relatively fragile and the Supreme Court is seen as crucial for protecting civil rights and the rule of law.

The crisis has split Israeli society and hit the economy hard by triggering foreign investor flight, weakening the shekel and raising the spectre of a general strike by the public sector union.

The Israeli leader responds by saying he does not make decisions based on pressure from abroad.

While Netanyahu says the plans would ensure a proper balance between the elected government and the judiciary, they have drawn sustained and furious opposition.

Yoav Galant's call for a halt to the reforms came as lawmakers are due to vote this coming week on a central part of the proposals, which would change the way judges are appointed.

Protesters could be heard shouting 'Netanyahu go to jail, you can't speak for Israel'.

Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara says the legal situation is clear.

The amended definition for the 'incapacity' of national leaders is among legislative measures by the religious-nationalist coalition that have tipped Israel into crisis.

The rally in Tel Aviv came as lawmakers in Jerusalem passed in preliminary reading a bill limiting the chances of a prime minister being impeached.

Lawmakers debate three new points of the divisive package, which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government argues is designed to limit judicial overreach.

Polls have found that most Israelis want the reforms slowed to allow for dialogue with critics, or shelved altogether.