Degel HaTorah Paper Denies 'No Confidence' Vote in Ousting MKs Gafni, Maklev

The Haredi newspaper 'Yated Ne'eman', the official organ of the Degel HaTorah faction, has issued its first statement regarding the recent removal of Knesset members Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev from the party's list for the upcoming Knesset elections. The newspaper asserted that the decision to remove the two lawmakers is not an expression of no confidence, emphasizing that they acted throughout their tenure according to the directives of senior rabbinical leaders and consulted them on every step.

The 'Yated Ne'eman' report stated that the Council of Torah Sages of Degel HaTorah is currently approving the party's Knesset list after refreshing its ranks with new representatives. The paper explicitly countered what it termed 'false reports,' insisting the refresh is not a sign of distrust, as Gafni and Maklev consistently followed the guidance of the Sages. The article noted that even after the failure to advance the conscription law, despite coalition promises, the rabbinical leaders acknowledged in a letter that the MKs had done their utmost to arrange the status of yeshiva students and kollel members.

While the newspaper did not name Gafni and Maklev directly, it referred to the Council of Torah Sages approving the list. However, reports indicate that some members of the Council expressed strong opposition to the removal, citing 'extraneous considerations.' Rabbi Dov Landau, a leading figure, sent personal letters to both MKs thanking them for their service but explaining the need for renewal. Another prominent leader, Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, reportedly disagreed with the decision and conveyed his opposition privately.

Sources close to MK Gafni claimed the move was orchestrated 'in the dark,' with repeated denials from Rabbi Landau's household staff. The decision to remove Gafni and Maklev is reportedly awaiting final approval from the Council of Torah Sages.