Top Haredi Rabbi Ousts Two Veteran Lawmakers from Knesset

Rabbi Dov Lando, a leading figure in the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community and spiritual leader of the Degel HaTorah party, has decided to remove two veteran lawmakers, Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev, from their Knesset (parliament) positions in the upcoming election cycle. Rabbi Lando sent personal letters to both MKs, thanking them for their service, particularly their efforts in defending the status of yeshiva students. The decision, however, stems from a need to refresh the party's parliamentary representation with new members.

Despite the ousting, Rabbi Lando requested that MK Gafni continue to serve as the chairman of the national Degel HaTorah movement. The announcement of the removals was made via a message in a group chat associated with Rabbi Lando's household. The official letters themselves were not attached to the public announcement released by Rabbi Lando's spokesperson.

Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, another prominent Haredi leader, was expected to co-sign the letter but ultimately chose not to intervene, reportedly expressing opposition to the decision privately. The move has generated significant criticism within internal Degel HaTorah forums, with some members accusing party operatives of using media leaks to orchestrate the dismissals. Critics argue that this treatment of long-serving members is disrespectful and deviates from the party's traditional values, potentially causing further division within the Haredi public.