Degel HaTorah Ousts Veteran Lawmakers Moshe Gafni, Uri Maklev in Overnight Shakeup

Degel HaTorah, a prominent Haredi political party, has removed veteran lawmakers Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev from its Knesset list for the upcoming elections. The decision, announced overnight by Rabbi Dov Landau, one of the party's leaders, aims to refresh the party's slate of representatives. Gafni, who served as chairman, will be replaced by MK Yaakov Asher, who will also chair the joint list of Degel HaTorah and Agudat Yisrael.

In private letters, Rabbi Landau thanked Gafni and Maklev for their years of service, particularly in advocating for yeshiva students, but cited the need for new blood in the Knesset. Gafni was also asked to continue as chairman of the national movement. Sources close to Gafni and Maklev expressed shock, stating they had received assurances that the list would remain unchanged, viewing the decision as a deceptive maneuver.

The shakeup is reportedly influenced by David Shapira, the grandson of the late Rabbi Steinman, who has consolidated power within Rabbi Landau's inner circle. Shapira had allegedly pushed for the removal of Gafni and Maklev, facing initial resistance from Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, another key leader, who reportedly called the ouster "bloodshed." However, Rabbi Hirsch ultimately withdrew his objection, allowing the decision to proceed.

The manner of the removal has drawn widespread criticism within the Haredi public and media. Commentators have decried the "beheading" and "lynching" of the veteran lawmakers, arguing that the process was disrespectful and damaging to the party's image. Some critics suggest this shift empowers operatives like Shapira over the party's rabbinical leadership, drawing parallels to the political dynamics within the Shas party.