Gafni and Maklev Removed From United Torah Judaism List

Members of Knesset Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev were removed from the United Torah Judaism party list and the Degel HaTorah faction ahead of the upcoming Knesset elections. The decision, announced Saturday night, comes from Rabbi Landu's household, a key figure in the Lithuanian Haredi community.

A statement from Rabbi Landu's office cited the need for "refreshment among the Members of Knesset," indicating that Gafni and Maklev would leave the Knesset to make way for new representatives. Rabbi Landu expressed gratitude for their years of service, particularly their efforts in advocating for yeshiva students, and acknowledged their adherence to the directives of Torah leaders.

Knesset Member Yaakov Asher is expected to replace them and potentially head the United Torah Judaism list. Asher has recently adopted a strong stance against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the current coalition. He previously served as the chairman of the Knesset Interior Committee.

Gafni is one of the longest-serving Knesset members, having served continuously since 1988. During his tenure, he held positions such as Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs and Chairman of the Finance Committee. Rabbi Landu reportedly asked Gafni to continue as chairman of the national movement, though his response is currently unclear.

Initially, Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, another prominent Lithuanian leader, had prevented Gafni and Maklev's removal from the list. However, Rabbi Hirsch later stated he would not interfere with the list's composition, despite deeming the move "inappropriate in the current situation," which allowed for Gafni and Maklev's ouster. The move was reportedly advanced by David Shapira, a central figure in Rabbi Landu's circle and influential in the party's newspaper, "Yated Ne'eman."