Journalists Slam "Disgraceful" Ouster of Veteran Knesset Members

Veteran Israeli lawmakers Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev have faced harsh criticism following their removal from the Degel HaTorah faction, with journalists decrying the manner of their dismissal after decades of public service. The controversy centers not only on the decision itself but also on how it was communicated to the two senior politicians.

Commentator Michael Shemesh expressed concern over the treatment of the lawmakers, noting the discrepancy between their long-standing positions as loyal representatives of "the great rabbis" and the way the decision was delivered. He described the ouster, which occurred shortly before Rosh Hashanah of the Hebrew year 5787 (2026), as being communicated "by messenger" and with "great shame."

Journalist Yanki Farber used particularly strong language, stating that Gafni and Maklev were "thrown out of Degel HaTorah like dogs," attributing the action to "third-rate operatives."

Another journalist, Yehuda Schlesinger, also sharply criticized the parting with Gafni, highlighting his 38 years of dedication to the Haredi public sphere. Schlesinger lamented the lack of class, respect, and gratitude shown, calling the situation "disgusting."