Top Ultra-Orthodox Politicians Moshe Gafni, Uri Maklev to Exit Knesset

Two veteran lawmakers from the ultra-Orthodox Degel HaTorah party, Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev, are set to leave their Knesset seats, a decision finalized after months of deliberation within the Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox community's leadership. The move, reportedly stemming from a desire to refresh the party's representation and a shift in internal power dynamics, was communicated to the lawmakers via a letter from Rabbi Dov Lando, a key spiritual leader.

Moshe Gafni, who has been the most prominent face of the party for decades, and Maklev have been in the Knesset for many years. Their departure signifies a major change for Degel HaTorah. While the party leadership emphasized their past work, particularly on the sensitive issue of military conscription, to preserve their honor and avoid the impression of failure, both lawmakers reportedly attempted to prevent the change without success.

Sources suggest that increased public discussion and efforts to influence the decision may have inadvertently accelerated the process. A conversation between Rabbi Lando's grandson, Tuvia Lando, and Gafni also took place on the evening the decision was conveyed.

Discussions are underway regarding potential new roles for Gafni and Maklev. For Gafni, a new, currently non-existent position as "president of the party" is being considered to keep him involved. This leadership transition also reflects evolving relationships among the Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox leadership, with the likely next party leader, Yaakov Asher, reportedly aligning more closely with Rabbi Lando's circle. Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch also reportedly agreed to the decision.

The change comes as Degel HaTorah faces a new internal challenge from a nascent ultra-Orthodox party called "HaTzibur HaHaredi," potentially altering the party's Knesset slate for the next election.