Key Figure Orchestrates Leadership Shakeup in Haredi Party, Shifting Political Alignments

A significant power struggle within the Degel HaTorah party, a major Haredi political faction, has culminated in the ousting of long-time Knesset members Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev. While presented as an "invigoration of the ranks" to bring in a new generation, the move is reportedly driven by a deeper battle for control over the party's political influence and decision-making.

Central to this upheaval is David Shapira, grandson of the late Rabbi Aharon Yehuda Leib Steinman, a prominent Haredi leader. Shapira, who wielded considerable influence during his grandfather's lifetime, has successfully maintained and rebuilt his power base following Steinman's death. He is now identified as a key architect behind the removal of Gafni and Maklev and is closely aligned with Yaakov Asher, who is emerging as a dominant figure within Degel HaTorah.

Shapira is a leading proponent of a new strategic direction for the party, advocating an end to its automatic allegiance to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the right-wing bloc. His vision is not to shift Degel HaTorah to the left or center, but rather to avoid pre-election commitments that place the party within Netanyahu's coalition automatically. The aim is to retain flexibility to negotiate with any potential governing partner after elections, prioritizing the interests of the Haredi public, particularly concerning the controversial draft law.

Though Shapira typically avoids public attention, his pivotal role in this leadership change has brought him into the spotlight. If Degel HaTorah indeed adopts this post-election negotiation strategy, it could have significant implications for the formation of the next Israeli government and the identity of its prime minister.