Degel HaTorah Leaders Gafni and Maklev to Leave Knesset

Rabbi Gershon Edelstein, a leading Lithuanian Haredi rabbi and head of the Ponevezh Yeshiva, has decided that Knesset Members Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev of the Degel HaTorah party will not continue to serve in the upcoming Knesset. The decision was conveyed in personal letters sent by Rabbi David Landau, another prominent Haredi leader, to both Gafni and Maklev on Saturday night. Rabbi Landau's letters expressed deep appreciation for their service, particularly their efforts in defending the status of yeshiva students, stating their work was done in "complete obedience to the great rabbis."

However, the decision reflects a need for "refreshing" the party's Knesset roster with new representatives after years of service. Gafni and Maklev were the first two names on the Degel HaTorah list. Despite this departure from the Knesset, Rabbi Landau requested that Gafni continue to serve as the national chairman of Degel HaTorah.

The dramatic decision followed an evening of intensive behind-the-scenes consultations and message exchanges between the homes of prominent rabbis. A special envoy facilitated communication between Rabbi Landau's residence and that of Rabbi Gershon Edelstein, with discussions continuing for hours regarding the party's future list. The final decision was made to replace Gafni and Maklev with new representatives, though their identities have not yet been announced and are expected to be determined later by the rabbinic leadership.