Top Rabbis Oust MKs Gafni, Maklev from United Torah Judaism Party

Prominent rabbis within the Degel HaTorah faction of the United Torah Judaism party have initiated the removal of Members of Knesset Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev. Rabbi Landau, a leading figure in Degel HaTorah, sent personal letters to both MKs on Saturday, citing a need to "refresh the Knesset members." Rabbis Landau and Hirsch confirmed the decision on Saturday evening.

The party is currently discussing the official announcement of the ousters and who will replace them. It has been agreed that MK Yaakov Asher will remain and will head the party. Asher, who is close to Rabbi Landau's circle, has recently adopted a stance against automatically supporting Prime Minister Netanyahu, a departure from past party positions.

This move marks a significant shift for Degel HaTorah, as it is the first time since 1988 that the party's rabbis are driving such a dramatic change in its Knesset roster. Gafni, a veteran MK first elected in 1988 and serving continuously since 1999, previously held positions such as Deputy Minister of Religious Services and Chairman of the Finance Committee. Maklev entered the Knesset in 2008 and has served as Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the Science and Technology Committee, among other roles.

Yaakov Asher is expected to lead Degel HaTorah's list for the upcoming elections. Other potential candidates being considered for the party's list include Moshe Rosenthal, who holds a management position in the Bnei Brak municipality. The party is also awaiting a decision regarding MK Yisrael Eichler's future, while Ministers Yitzhak Goldknopf and Meir Porush, along with MK Yaakov Tessler, are expected to continue their terms.