Top Haredi Rabbi Ousts Two Veteran Lawmakers from Knesset

Rabbi Dov Landau, a leading figure in the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, has decided to remove veteran lawmakers Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev from their positions in the upcoming Knesset session. The decision was conveyed through personal letters sent to both Members of Knesset.

In the letters, Rabbi Landau expressed gratitude for Gafni and Maklev's service, particularly their efforts in defending the status of yeshiva students. However, he stated that a "refreshment of the ranks" is necessary, leading to their departure to make way for new representatives. Rabbi Landau also requested that Gafni continue to serve as the chairman of the Degel HaTorah party.

Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, another prominent leader, reportedly disagreed with the decision to oust the lawmakers and chose not to join Rabbi Landau's letter. The official announcement did not include the full text of the letters sent to Gafni and Maklev.

Within the Degel HaTorah party, there has been significant internal criticism of the decision and the way it was communicated. Some members expressed anger, feeling that lawmakers who dedicated their lives to the party were "thrown to the dogs" through media leaks. Senior party officials also voiced concerns, suggesting this marks a departure from the party's traditional values and could lead to further division within the Haredi public.