Degel HaTorah Leadership Ousts Veteran MKs Gafni and Maklev

Degel HaTorah, a prominent Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox political party, has removed its long-serving Knesset members Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev from its electoral list, according to a statement from Rabbi Dov Lando, the movement's spiritual leader. The decision, attributed to a need for "refreshment" among Knesset members, marks a significant shift for the party.

Moshe Gafni, 74, who was first elected to the Knesset in 1988 and has served for over 35 years cumulatively, including more than 12 years as chairman of the powerful Finance Committee, will be replaced as the party's head on the list by MK Yaakov Asher, according to media reports. Uri Maklev, 69, first elected in 2008, has served for over 14 years.

Rabbi Lando expressed gratitude to Gafni and Maklev for their service, particularly highlighting their efforts in advocating for the status of yeshiva students, acting in "complete obedience to the great rabbis." Lando also requested that Gafni continue to serve as chairman of Degel HaTorah's national movement.

In separate political news, the parties Yesh Atid and Yisrael Beiteinu announced they would reveal their Knesset lists on the same day. Yesh Atid's list, headed by Yair Lapid, includes former officials and activists such as Merav Ben Ari, Keren Turner, and Nissan Zevi. Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Lieberman, is expected to feature former MK Dan Illouz, Michal Sela Forum founder Lily Ben Ami, and reservist Colonel Talia Lancrey, alongside several incumbent party members.